Willow River, Minnesota: A massive explosion followed by an intense fire was reported near Willow River in Pine County on Friday, prompting emergency evacuations and a large-scale response from local authorities. Officials said the incident is believed to involve a gas pipeline, though the exact cause has not yet been confirmed.
Videos shared on social media showed towering flames and thick plumes of black smoke billowing into the sky, visible from several miles away. The dramatic visuals quickly spread online as residents described chaotic scenes unfolding near the blast site.
🚨🇺🇸 BREAKING: LARGE EXPLOSIONS AND MASSIVE FIRE HIT WILLOW RIVER, MINNESOTA
People felt the blasts from miles away.
The fire’s still going and no one knows what caused it yet.
Officials are telling everyone to stay inside and be careful.
Source: @RapidReport2025 pic.twitter.com/JiBgaLuVWe
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) January 16, 2026
Powerful Blasts Felt Miles Away
Residents living in and around Willow River reported feeling strong shockwaves that rattled homes and buildings. Several witnesses told local media they heard loud booms followed by intense heat and smoke, with the force of the explosions felt far beyond the immediate area.
“The whole house shook,” one resident said, adding that the blast sounded like “multiple explosions back to back.”
Emergency Response And Evacuations
Emergency crews from Pine County and surrounding areas rushed to the scene within minutes of the incident. Firefighters, law enforcement officers, and other first responders worked to contain the blaze and secure the area amid ongoing danger.
Authorities blocked access to several roads northwest of Willow River as a precautionary measure. Residents in nearby areas were urged to stay away from the site while emergency operations continued.
Multiple Fires Reported
Officials confirmed that multiple large fires broke out following the explosion. Footage shared by Carlton County Fire News showed intense flames spreading across a wide area, complicating firefighting efforts.
The fire continued to burn late into the day as crews focused on preventing it from spreading further and ensuring public safety.
