Traill County (trfnews.i234.me) — Multiple fire crews are on the scene of a major grain elevator fire in Hatton, North Dakota, on this Wednesday evening.
The fire broke out around 3:00 p.m. at the Anchor Grain elevator in Hatton. Witnesses report seeing thick smoke and flames visible from several miles away as crews from multiple departments responded to the blaze.
Fire departments from Hatton, Mayville, Portland, Reynolds, Buxton, and Finley were all called to assist. Around 4:20 p.m., additional support from the Grand Forks Fire Department was requested as the fire continued to spread through the structure.
Grain elevator fires are notoriously difficult to extinguish due to the heavy timber construction and the presence of combustible grain dust. The Anchor Grain structure, like many rural elevators, is decades old and built primarily from wood, making it especially vulnerable once flames take hold.
Firefighters have lined the main street near the elevator, working from multiple angles to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby buildings. As of early evening, there were no reports of injuries and no confirmed word yet on the cause of the blaze.
Officials say crews are expected to remain on scene well into the night. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available from the Traill County Sheriff’s Office and local fire departments.
For background on grain elevator fire hazards and safety protocols, see OSHA Grain Handling Safety.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
