Romania’s Black Sea Petromidia Refinery Suffers “Explosion” 

Reuters reports an “explosion” occurred at a refinery in Năvodari, Romania, situated on the Black Sea. Early indications are at least two people were injured. 

A thick column of black smoke rises from the Petromidia Refinery owned by the Rompetrol company. 

Video uploaded onto social media via nearby beachgoers shows the incident unfolding.

As a result of the explosion, the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situation said two people were injured but didn’t provide additional details on their conditions. 

A hazard alert was issued to surrounding residents. Those who were within 1 km, or a little more than half a mile, from the plant, were told to evacuate. 

The cause of the explosion remains unknown, but the incident area has been a recent hotbed for international attention. Last week, a NATO warship sailed through what Russia claims is territorial waters near Crimea. That sparked a massive response by Russia to expel the vessel.