Rescue teams continue their efforts for a third day to locate a missing miner at the Rolling Thunder Mine in Nicholas County, West Virginia, approximately 50 miles east of Charleston. The mine flooded over the weekend after a mining crew accidentally hit an unknown water pocket, leading to the current emergency.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey has assured that all available resources, including national experts, are being utilized in the search operation. He emphasized, “There is nothing that we would spare to try to save the life of the miner.” The rescue operation involves specialized dive teams searching for air pockets where the miner might be trapped, while simultaneously working to lower the water levels in the mine.
The flooding incident occurred when the seal to an old mine works gave way, although it remains unclear if this was the source of the water backup. While most miners were safely evacuated, one remains unaccounted for. According to West Virginia Watch, Commissioner Garrett Cole expressed hope for the miner’s safe return, stating, “May God’s will be done, but it is our sincere prayer that it is to keep this miner safe and returned to his family, friends, and coworkers.”
Governor Morrisey is coordinating with state and federal agencies, as well as the National Cave Rescue Commission, to ensure that all possible measures are taken to rescue the miner. The United Mine Workers of America has also sent safety experts to assist in the search efforts, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the challenges faced by the rescue teams.
As efforts continue, the focus remains on the safety of both the missing miner and the rescue teams involved in the operation.
Recent Comments