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Lightning Strike Ignites Oil Well Tanks

Posted: 8:14 AM Jul 3, 2012
Reporter: Brandon Miles

DIXON, Ky. (AP) -- Kentucky transportation officials say U.S. 41 has been reopened in Webster County after a lightning strike ignited an oil well tank fire.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet said the tanks burst into flame after being hit by lightning around 10 p.m. Monday. The lid from one of the tanks was blown onto the nearby highway. The well is between Dixon and Providence. Two other tanks were burning when firefighters arrived.

A representative of the well operator said a tanker truck had recently pumped oil from the tanks, lessening the fire hazard. Heavy rain that accompanied the storms helped keep the flames from spreading.

The explosion and fire also damaged some power lines in the area, knocking out service.

There were no reports of injuries.