Superior, WI (KROC AM News) - The mandatory evacuation order that was issued Thursday for residents in and around Superior, Wisconsin was lifted at 6:00 AM Friday.

Thousands of residents were affected by a series of explosions and huge fires at an oil refinery in the city located east of Duluth.

Superior Mayor said Friday morning, “ All indications are that the refinery site is safe and stable and the air quality is clean and normal. Welcome home.”

The first explosion happened around 10:00 AM and there were more through the day. Crews dealt with on-and-off fires into late Thursday evening. Reports indicate as many as 15 people were hurt, one seriously.

The National Weather Service radar in Duluth showed the smoke plume drifting to the south, affecting only sparsely populated areas. Nearby Duluth was not affected.

NWS Duluth radar
NWS Duluth radar
loading...

It’s not known yet what triggered the initial explosion.

Get local and national news on the go.  Download our News-Talk 1340 KROC-AM App http://krocam.com/app/ – available on Apple and Android devices.

More From Sasquatch 107.7 - The Rock of Rochester