Grass fire sets Idaho junk yard on fire, fears of propane and liquid oxygen tanks exploding results in blocked roads

Initial reports say that a grass fire on U.S. Highway 30 (Old Bannock Highway) near the Hoku plant, and the malting plant, in Bannock County, Idaho, caused a massive junk yard fire.  Fortunately the wind was blowing the flames away from the gas company.

Walt’s Auto Salvage fire, July 26, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

The salvage yard is run by Walt’s.  Law enforcement blocked off several roads, because a gas company, Ameri Gas, is located right next to the salvage yard. They deal in liquid oxygen and propane.

WAS fire, U.S. Highway 30, Bannock County, July 26, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By 14:30 (2:30 PM) about 45 vehicles in the yard were on fire. The fire was brought under control around 15:00 (3:00 PM), thanks to the massive response by local fire fighters.  Some witnesses say the junk yard fire started after one or more propane tanks exploded.