Turkish authorities report two miners dead after explosion in Gelik

Two miners died after an explosion at around 10:00 a.m. on Friday at a private mine in the town of Gelik, Kilimli district, Zonguldak province, in northern Turkey. According to local authorities, the blast was caused by “mine gas,” a flammable gas that can accumulate in tunnels.

Zonguldak Governor Osman Hacibektasoglu said that eight people were underground. Seven miners were brought out of the mine, but two later died in hospital. Two other rescued workers suffered burns and are in serious condition. One of the injured workers was transferred to Ankara, while authorities are preparing to transfer the second.

The governor also said that one miner was still inside the mine, with whom rescuers had established contact and were attempting to bring to the surface. Initial reports indicated two dead and five injured. Teams from the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority, firefighters and medical crews were sent to the accident site. Rescuers are continuing operations and inspections.