Customers back to normal after gas pipeline explosion; temporary repairs on going
Willow River Pipeline Explosion
(Carlton County Fire News)
(Carlton County Fire News)
PINE COUNTY, Min. – Minnesota Energy Resources says all of their customers impacted by the recent pipeline explosion can get back to regular usage.
Some customers in Willow River, Sturgeon Lake and Finlayson lost service on the afternoon of January 16, 2026.
Customers were asked to reduce their heating levels now for four days after the explosion.
Minnesota Energy Resources said in a news release , “All customers may now use natural gas without any restrictions.”
Northern Natural Gas brought a temporary supply of natural gas to help homes and businesses stay warm over the weekend.
Minnesota Energy Resources says Northern Natural Gas, “has now established a more permanent fuel supply, meaning customers can go back to using natural gas as usual.”
RELATED: Weather slowing installation of temporary pipeline after explosion; Still no cause
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Members of the Minnesota Office of Pipeline Safety and State Fire Marshal divisions are investigating the explosion. They are teaming up with investigators from the Federal Department of Transportation Northern Natural Gas Company is also working government officials to determine the cause.
If any impacted customers that are still without service can call Minnesota Energy Resources to have it restored.
