Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki stated that the first blast occurred shortly after midnight, about 1,000m (3,000 feet) below the surface at Pawlowice’s Pniowek Mine.
Morawiecki stated that a rescue operation was initiated immediately. However, a second explosion occurred approximately three hours later than the first and some rescuers lost communication.
Due to the dangerous conditions and the resulting fire, the operation was stopped. Experts are examining the possibility of restarting the rescue mission.
Jastrzebska Spolka Weglowa (or JSW) operates the mine near the Czech border. An investigation has been opened by the prosecution.
The prime minister stated that more than 20 people were admitted to hospital with severe burns. This includes rescuers. The Siemianowice-Slaskie hospital, which treats victims of mining accidents and burns, stated that some patients suffered life-threatening injuries.
Adam Niedzielski, Health Minister, stated that one of the five dead was among the 11 seriously injured patients who were admitted to Siemianowice hospital. Others were transported to other hospitals in the area.
Morawiecki stated that rescue workers were among the casualties of the explosions.
He said, “A tragedy occurred here today,” as he expressed sympathy to the families and highlighted the dangers of coal mining.
Poland is almost 70% dependent on imported and domestic coal for its energy needs, drawing criticisms from the European Union as well as environmental groups concerned about climate change and CO2 emissions.
The southern Silesia region is home to the majority of coal mines. Many of these coal mines are at high risk from explosions due to the sudden release methane.
Recently, the government announced that it would stop Russian coal imports by May. This is part of Poland’s effort to reduce dependence on Russian energy sources and also in response to Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.
