Mine rescue operations continue in Nicholas County, scene still active

DRENNEN, W.Va. — Emergency crews continue search and rescue efforts at the Rolling Thunder Mine in Nicholas County, where one miner remains unaccounted for following a mine flood Friday afternoon.

Nicholas County Commission President D. Craig Chapman said the flooding began around 1 p.m. after an old mine wall was compromised. Water filled a section of the mine, trapping one worker approximately three-quarters of a mile underground. All other miners have been safely accounted for.

As of 10 p.m., crews were actively pumping water out of the mine in hopes of reaching the missing individual. Search efforts continued overnight.

In an official update, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed state agencies are on-site. He said the state is aware of the incident and that a portion of the mine flooded after the structural failure. He added that safety and emergency personnel are assessing the situation and coordinating response efforts.

The West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training is leading the response alongside the West Virginia Emergency Management Division, Department of Environmental Protection, State Police, the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), and local emergency responders.

The National Cave and Rescue Commission is also assisting with the assessment and rescue planning.

This remains an active situation. Further updates will be released as more information becomes available.