DUNDALK, Md. — An explosion and fire has been reported at the Back River Waste Water Treatment Plant in Dundalk.
Baltimore County Fire Department has confirmed a two-alarm fire at the plant, and says evacuations are in progress. All employees have been accounted for and there are no injuries.
The fire did not interrupt operations at the treatment plant.
The department said the fire was being fueled by gas, and thermal oil was burning from the silo.
There were no hazardous materials involved, and the Maryland Department of Environment said they found no impact on the environment or public health.
The fire was called under control just after 3 p.m.
Seven people were working in the building when the fire occurred.
The plant, on Eastern Avenue, was taken over by the state last summer after environmental concerns raised by repeated sewer discharge.
MDE said the oil was contained to the site, and there is no environmental impact or threat to public health.
2-alarm commercial building fire w explosion, 8200 block of Eastern Ave., 21224 at the Synagro wastewater treatment plant. Gas-fed fire has caused unstable areas in the building. Evacuation in progress. PIO en route. DT 1126 EA pic.twitter.com/Oy67PUM9YO
— Baltimore County Fire Department (@BaltCoFire) March 15, 2023
*Update* 8200 Block of Eastern Ave. Synagro wastewater treatment plant. Crews remain on scene; thermal oil burning from silo at location. DT1126 *TA pic.twitter.com/Ujq9zfIVFX
— Baltimore County Fire Department (@BaltCoFire) March 15, 2023
The City Union of Baltimore issued a statement on Thursday, one day following the incident.
