Industrial Accident in Flums: Molten Material Causes Millions in Damage

A significant industrial accident occurred at a rock wool production facility in Flums, St. Gallen, late Thursday evening, resulting in extensive damage but fortunately no injuries. The incident, which took place around 9:30 PM, involved a technical malfunction that caused molten material heated to 1,500 degrees Celsius to escape from a furnace, creating a dangerous situation that required immediate emergency response.

Local authorities swiftly implemented emergency protocols following the incident. Residents of Flums and neighboring Walenstadt were instructed to close their windows and doors and shut down ventilation systems due to potential noxious fumes. The canton of St. Gallen utilized the Alertswiss service to communicate with the public, maintaining transparent updates throughout the crisis. By 1:30 AM Friday, authorities lifted the alert, confirming there was no longer any danger to the population.

The incident originated in the facility's stone melting furnace, where rock wool production typically takes place. The escaped molten material, at temperatures reaching 1,500°C, burned through multiple floors of the building due to its extreme heat. Firefighters faced significant challenges in their cooling efforts, as water immediately vaporized upon contact with the superheated material. Initial estimates place the damage at several million Swiss francs, making this one of the most costly industrial accidents in the region's recent history.

While the incident caused significant concern among local residents, the swift response from authorities and clear communication channels helped maintain public safety. The temporary evacuation orders and ventilation restrictions were lifted within hours, allowing normal activities to resume. The incident highlights the importance of industrial safety protocols and emergency response systems in Swiss communities housing major industrial facilities.