Clinton Elevator Engulfed in Flames

Fire departments from Clinton, Graceville, Beardsley, Ortonville, Odessa, Big Stone City, SD, Wheaton, Herman, Browns Valley, Chokio, Morris, and Dumont are on the scene of a major blaze that broke out at the Wheaton-Dumont Elevator in Clinton, Minnesota, this morning.

The fire, an orange ball of fire that can be seen from miles, has prompted officials to evacuate about 75 residents from homes within a three block radius of the elevator. Roads leading to Clinton, including Highway 75, have been closed, and the sheriff has issued an emergency alert to advise people to avoid Clinton and the surrounding area. Residents of Clinton have been asked to limit their use of water until the fire is under control. Firefighters are also drawing water from Eli Lake.

There is no immediate report of injuries. The fire and rescue departments have been battling the blaze since about 9:30 this morning in conditions that include high humidity coupled with temperatures hovering around 90 degrees.
Stay tuned to The Valley Express for updates. 

Photos Courtesy of Artie’s Bait & Tackle