Natural Gas Rig Experiences Blowout-Carlsbad Residents Cautioned

Carlsbad, NM, March 11, 2004-Approximately 9:30am there was an apparent blow out of natural gas drilling rig, located on the south end of Carlsbad. At that time Carlsbad Fire, Police, Eddy County Sheriffs Department and New Mexico State Police were notified and began evacuation of an approximate one-mile radius around the affected area.

The evacuated area consists of Old Cavern Highway, the Industrial Park and Carlsbad Municipal Airport. Additionally, locations within one mile east of Big Sky Road and all of Hagerman Acres. Evacuated individuals needing a place to shelter can r4eport to the Pecos River Village or the River walk Recreation Center, located on Muscatel Avenue. Additionally, individuals needing assistance with evacuation can contact the Emergency Information line at 887-7807.

A section of National Parks Highway is closed form Ferris to Haston Road. Traffic is being detoured around the area by using Old Cavern Highway to the east and Boyd Drive to the west. School buses will not run in this area, and parents are encouraged to contact their child’s school for further information.

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