UPDATE: Pine County Sheriff Jeff Nelson said there is no further risk to the public following reports of a possible gas pipeline explosion near Willow River, Minnesota.
“There’s no reason to think there’s any more risk to people using their gas or anything like that,” Nelson told WDIO. “They’re going to work on making sure that the customers in the affected area will have gas.”
Meanwhile, Carlton County Fire News reported that gas supplies between Willow River and Duluth have been shut off, although this has not yet been confirmed by authorities.
ORIGINAL STORY: Two fires were reported near Willow River in Minnesota on Friday following reports of a possible gas pipeline explosion.
The Pine County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the explosion reports, saying it received a surge of 911 calls around 1:43 pm on January 16, 2026. The incident was reported in a rural area west of Willow River. Residents at several nearby addresses were asked to evacuate as a precaution.
In a Facebook post, the sheriff's office said, "Several fire departments, EMS, and law enforcement were dispatched and determined it was a larger gas line that was involved. Multiple addresses in proximity to the explosion were asked to evacuate."
{{/usCountry}}In a Facebook post, the sheriff's office said, "Several fire departments, EMS, and law enforcement were dispatched and determined it was a larger gas line that was involved. Multiple addresses in proximity to the explosion were asked to evacuate."
{{/usCountry}}"Nothing criminal is suspected at this time. Northern Natural Gas and responders are currently on scene. There have been no reported injuries. Nothing further at this time."
Videos circulating on social media show massive flames and thick plumes of smoke in the Fox Lake area.
Carlton County Fire News said the incident occurred near Highway 61 and County Road 41, with an explosion reported around 1:30 p.m. Flames are reportedly visible from I‑35, according to Northland FireWire.
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Authorities have urged the public to avoid areas northwest of Willow River until further notice.