Nuclear Storehouse Fire, No Injuries

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At approximately 9:15 a.m. EST, a fire started in a handling hood which is used to safely manage radioactive substances at the Y-12 National Security Complex.

The Y‑12 National Security Complex is a premier manufacturing facility dedicated to making our nation and the world a safer place and plays a vital role in the Department of Energy’s Nuclear Security Enterprise. Y‑12 helps ensure a safe and effective U.S. nuclear weapons deterrent.

Authorities confirmed that no one was hurt, and the blaze was contained within the building where the hood was installed. The Y-12 National Security Complex was established as part of the Manhattan Project to enrich uranium for the first atomic bombs, and presently, it is responsible for maintaining the United States’ nuclear weapons stockpile and fueling nuclear-powered Navy vessels. About 200 employees working in and near the affected building were evacuated. There were no reports of injuries or contamination, as per WVLT-TV in Knoxville, Tennessee. Furthermore, Y-12 officials said that the surrounding area of the complex was not impacted. At 1:10 p.m., curfews were lifted, and incoming shifts were anticipated to report to the facility on schedule.

According to the National Nuclear Security Administration, the affected building was Building 9212, which was constructed in 1945 to handle uranium. The fire was ignited by uranium in the form of a metal, as reported by Y-12 officials to WVLT-TV.

Y-12 officials have not confirmed whether the fire has been extinguished. Still, they have notified congressional representatives of the emergency response underway at the location.