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The 2009 Wujek-Śląsk mine blast occurred at the Wujek bituminous coal mine in Ruda Śląska, Poland on 18 September 2009. At least 20 miners were killed (12 died in coal mine, 8 in hospitals) and at least 37 more were hospitalised. It is the country's deadliest mining accident since the deaths of 23 miners from methane at the Silesia's Halemba mine in November 2006.[1][2]
The incident happened approximately 1 kilometer below surface level.[2] Around 40 people were underground at the time of the blast.[3] Twenty-nine made it out themselves but the rest had to be assisted.[2][4] Emergency services ferried the casualties to the nearest hospitals.[3] Eighteen were hospitalised at a burns specialist unit in Siemianowice Śląskie; six were hospitalised at Sosnowiec where family members collected outside in an upset manner.[3] Some of the deaths came quickly, whilst more did not die until some time later.[2] Deaths were caused by burns, some of 90 degree proportions, with burns sustained to the respiratory tract.[2][3] Many will require psychological assistance as well if they are to fully recover from the incident.[3] Production was stopped but the rest of the mine remained in operation.[2][4] The fire was quenched.[3] The probable cause is thought to be methane ignition.[2][4]
An investigation into the incident was quickly launched.[3] Then-President of Poland Lech Kaczyński expressed his regrets: "On behalf of all Poles I convey the closest family members our sympathy and solidarity and join them in prayer and pain. I wish all the injured a quick return to health".[3] Polish Minister of Interior and Administration, Grzegorz Schetyna, alongside a deputy minister of economy,[4] greeted the families of those who died by visiting the region after the blast.[2] Two days of national mourning commenced at 06:00 on 21 September 2009;[1] flags were flown at half-mast.[1] Several pre-scheduled events were called off as result of the disaster.[1]
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