A propane leak in Rosemount has prompted evacuations of nearby homes and the temporary shutdown of a stretch of Hwy. 52.
The Rosemount Fire and Police departments responded at around 2:41 p.m. Wednesday to the 15100 block of Hwy. 52 after reports of a possible brush fire, according to a city release. But when they arrived, emergency responders discovered a substance leak rather than a fire.
After closing part of the highway between County Rds. 46 and 42, crews identified the source of the leak as a propane line owned by Flint Hills Resources refinery.
As a precaution, two families that live near the leak site were evacuated from their homes.
As of about 9:30 p.m. Wednesday, authorities said the leak was contained and Dakota County personnel were monitoring the air quality.
Gov. Tim Walz posted on X Wednesday night that he had been briefed on the gas leak.
“I’m glad to hear that everyone is safe,” Walz said. “Thank you to the first responders and state agencies who responded to evacuate homes in the area and are investigating to find the exact location of the leak.”
According to Rosemount officials, Flint Hills has been proactive in mitigating the situation. The refinery was working to discharge the remaining propane from the leaking line, and also was assisting with relocation of the evacuated families.
