Jackson, Mississippi – Two devastating gas explosions in South Jackson have left a community in turmoil months after the tragic incidents took place. The aftermath of the explosions has raised concerns about the safety of natural gas lines in the Capital City, sparking investigations into the root causes of the explosions. The incidents, which occurred just three days apart in January, resulted in the loss of lives and serious injuries, prompting questions about the integrity of the gas infrastructure in the area.
The first explosion claimed the life of 82-year-old Clara Barbour and left her husband, The Rev. Johnny Barbour, severely injured. Subsequent investigations revealed that Atmos Energy had identified a gas leak in the area two months prior to the explosion, raising questions about why the leak was not addressed in a timely manner. Three days after the first explosion, another abandoned house on Shalimar Drive exploded, causing flames to spread to neighboring homes. Atmos had also identified a gas leak on the property a month before the incident.
Public Service Commissioner De’Keither Stamps emphasized the need for robust safety measures and policies to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The incidents in Jackson have highlighted the widespread issues with gas leaks, with reports of 285 calls for gas leaks in the area from late February of the previous year. While Atmos has undertaken numerous replacement projects in the metro area, concerns remain about the adequacy of the repairs and the overall safety of the gas infrastructure.
Atmos Energy released a statement emphasizing their commitment to safety and the significant investments made in enhancing the reliability of the natural gas system in Mississippi. However, Stamps reiterated that the gas leak problem extends beyond Jackson, emphasizing the need for comprehensive governance and safety measures at the city, county, and state levels. Residents were urged to prioritize gas pipeline safety by immediately reporting any gas smells and calling for assistance when undertaking digging activities on their properties.
As investigations continue and efforts to improve gas pipeline safety intensify, the community remains vigilant in ensuring the integrity of the gas infrastructure. Stamps emphasized the critical role of excellence in maintaining safety standards in the industry, highlighting the potential risks associated with inadequate measures. Atmos Energy’s round-the-clock hotline serves as a crucial resource for residents to report any safety concerns or gas-related emergencies, underscoring the importance of proactive safety measures in preventing future disasters.