Work continues to fix natural gas pipeline damaged from explosion

Willow River Pipeline Explosion

Willow River Pipeline Explosion
(Carlton County Fire News)

(Carlton County Fire News)

PINE COUNTY, Minn. – Crews with Northern Natural Gas Company on Monday (1/19/26) told FOX21 they are still working on the north and south ends of the pipeline segment that exploded on January 16, 2025.

They did not give an estimated timeline for the repairs.

Northern Natural Gas is supplying compressed natural gas trucks to provide natural gas to the affected communities.

Minnesota Energy Resources says temporary service has been restored to nearly all customers after the explosion to the Northern Natural Gas interstate pipeline.  Impacted customers still without service can call Minnesota Energy Resources to have it restored.

Pine County Explosion

Willow River Explosion (Carlton County Fire News)

(Carlton County Fire News)

The investigation into the cause of the incident is ongoing; An initial suspected cause has not been released.

The explosion could be heard all around the area.

The pipeline will not be returned to service until it is safe to do so.

RELATED: Large explosion in Pine County; Natural gas affected in parts of Willow River and Sturgeon Lake

RELATED:  Following explosion some customers could be without natural gas for days

 

Categories: Business, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News, Public Safety