By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, Aug. 26 -- The fire that burned for almost a week at Duke Energy Gas Transmission's Moss Bluff natural gas storage cavern No.1 in Liberty County, Tex., burned itself out at 9:15 p.m. Wednesday, and installation of a new valve assembly began Thursday afternoon. Well control specialists Boots & Coots International Well Control remained on site assisting with safety protocols.
The fire, which began with an explosion at the facility Aug. 19—followed by a second explosion the next day—consumed what was estimated to be 6 bcf of gas stored in the salt cavern (OGJ Online, Aug. 20, 2004). "We won't know the full amount until we can further assess the situation," said Duke's Director of Public Affairs Frances Jeter. She added that an assessment of damages was not yet complete.
An investigation is under way into the cause of the initial explosion, and Caverns 2 and 3, which were undamaged, will remain closed to activity until that information is known, she said.
"The company remains committed to resolving this situation as rapidly as possible while keeping the safety and security of residents and on-site personnel as the No. 1 priority," Duke said in a statement. No injuries were reported.
Meanwhile, local residents were allowed to return to their homes near the site and the Duke Energy Foundation contributed $10,000 to the Greater Houston Chapter of the Red Cross for evacuation efforts related to the fire.