LARAMIE COUNTY, Wy. - A important gas fire west of Cheyenne, Wyoming, ignited early Sunday morning, with flames visible as far away as Loveland, Colorado, authorities reported.
The fire, stemming from a rupture in a gas pipeline south of Interstate 80 near mile marker 345, was first reported around 2 a.m. by Union Pacific.While no injuries have been reported and no evacuations are in place, the incident is prompting a multi-agency investigation and has temporarily halted rail traffic in the area. Pipeline operator Kinder Morgan has shut off gas flow too the affected segment.
Union Pacific stated a train was approximately 40 feet from the rupture when it occurred.The heat prevented continued operation over the tracks, but no derailment or confirmed train fire occurred. The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the fire was visible within the county overnight.
Kinder Morgan confirmed the Colorado Interstate Gas Company is investigating the potential pipeline failure. cheyenne Fire Rescue’s hazmat team is on scene alongside Union Pacific personnel. Local, state, and federal agencies are coordinating the investigation.
Union Pacific plans to inspect the tracks for damage and necessary repairs once the fire department deems the area safe.Denver7 has contacted local fire officials for further details.
