Massive Gas Explosion Rocks Middletown; Governor Rell Imposes No-Fly Zone Above Power Plant

Gov. M. Jodi Rell announced a “no-fly zone” on Sunday night over the Middletown power plant that suffered a huge explosion, killing at least five people.

The zone covers three nautical miles for any aircraft flying under 3,000 feet in an effort to ensure the safety of the rescue teams working below. The heavily damaged building is unstable, and the no-fly zone will remain in effect at least until sunset Monday.

“We cannot have the safety of our first responders jeopardized,” said Rell, who spent several hours at the scene Sunday.

Further details are at http://www.courant.com/community/middletown/hc-middletown-kleen-power-plant-explosion-0207,0,6714580.story

Throughout the day, updates will be posted at www.courant.com.