Fire on the Susquehanna After Flood Slams Wilkes-Barre
Date Range
April 1, 1940 – April 4, 1940
Title
Fire on the Susquehanna After Flood Slams Wilkes-Barre
What occurred
From up to twenty miles away, the smoke could be seen from the fire that lit on the Susquehanna River as it ran through Wilkes-Barre, PA. This fire was the result of a section of the river dike breaking causing water to flood the area beneath it. Hours later, a very loud roar would be heard as the American Oil company's tanks exploded. A tsunami of combustion was followed by dark black smoke that hung in the air menacingly. In addition to the fire, the floodwaters that poured through the dike walls flooded homes and businesses alike, causing the displacement of 15,000 people with 9 being confirmed dead.
Location
American Oil Co., Edwardsville, PA 18704
Image Citation
https://picclick.com/1940-Original-Photo-Flood-Gasoline-Explosion-Pennsylvania-Wilkes-Barre-334175522288.html
Student name(s)
Reed Karaska