Nicholas County, WV (WOAY) – Rescue operations are still ongoing to find the missing miner at the Rolling Thunder Mine in Nicholas County.
Several million gallons of water have been pumped out of the mine. However, 2.7 million gallons remain before rescuers can safely enter. Once the water level is low enough, search teams will have expanded underground access.
Alpha Metallurgical is partnering with outside companies to drill from the surface to make more access points for a capsule drill to help in the rescue.
Other agencies on scene include the Office of Miners’ Health, Safety, and Training, the Emergency Management Division, the Department of Environmental Protection, State Police, local first responders, and specialized dive and drilling teams.
Officials say drilling is ongoing and additional equipment is being brought in as the search continues.
Governor Patrick Morrisey says he is coordinating with the United States military to bring in more equipment, and says the state will use every tool in its arsenal in the search.
He also asked all West Virginians to keep the missing miner, his family, and the rescue team in their thoughts and prayers.
