The incident happened on Thursday morning around 8 AM near the city of Rybnik in southern Poland at one of the oldest coal mines in Silesia –The Rydłutowy.
A powerful tremor occurred at a depth of 1200 meters underground, affecting 78 miners. As of now, 76 individuals have been rescued, with 17 hospitalized just after the quake (they are now in stable condition).
A dispatcher from the State Mining Authority (WUG) reported casualties to PAP following the tremor. The exact strength and epicenter are still unknown, and the rescue efforts continue.
According to TVN24, several dozen miners were in the danger zone, and some have already been brought to the surface. Associated Press reported, that The Euro-Mediterranean Seismological Center noted a magnitude 3.1 earthquake in southern Poland near mine Rydłutowy at that time.
The Polish Mining Group, which owns the mine, confirmed the situation, stating that 78 miners were in the affected area. PGG spokesperson Aleksandra Wysocka-Siembiga informed PAP that the tremor occurred around 8 a.m. at the 1200 m level near the 713 seam.
"At this time, evacuation and accounting of personnel are ongoing in that area, with rescue teams deployed," she added.
PGG indicated that all personnel were accounted for at the time of the tremor, and there is no evidence of structural collapse. The spokesperson emphasized that efforts are underway to assist those affected.
The head of the High Office for the Mining, Piotr Litwa said, that the search for the missing miner was suspended because of the high risk of more tremors. Twenty specialized teams took part in rescue operation.
One of the miners died late Thursday at the hospital, but no other details was provided.
"The rescue operation in the Rydułtowy traffic area continues in very difficult conditions after Thursday's high-energy shock. At night, after dangerous tremors occurred, rescue teams were withdrawn out of concern for people's safety" – confirmed The Polish Mining Group.
Source: PAP/TVN24/AP/PGG
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