Three explosions caused mine collapses in Russia, killing 36 people.

A total of 36 people, including miners and rescue workers, died in explosions that caused coal mine collapses in northern Russia since February 25.

The incident is believed to be the most serious mining accident in Russia in recent years. (Illustrative image: ItarTass)

The two initial explosions were caused by methane gas.sudden leakThe incident occurred on February 25th at the Severnaya mine in Vorkuta, in the Arctic Circle. It resulted in the deaths of four miners and 26 missing.

Authorities launched a massive search and rescue operation involving hundreds of workers. However, a new explosion occurred in the mine today, killing six people, including five rescue workers and one miner.

Reuters quoted the Minister of Emergency Situations.Vladimir Puchkov said today that the 26 missing miners have died. "The conditions in the affected area inside the mine did not allow anyone to survive. In the underground space where the 26 miners were, the temperature was high and there was no oxygen," he said.

CcompanyVorkutaugolmine operatorSevernaya, citing a panel of technical experts, also concluded that 26 had no chance of survival. The company stated that rescue operations had been suspended.

A total of 36 people died in the incident.This appears to be the worst mining accident in Russia in recent years.

Location of Vorkuta city. Graphic: rferl

According to VNE