2009 Wujek-Śląsk mine blast

The incident happened approximately 1 kilometer below surface level.^[2] Around 40 people were underground at the time of the blast.^[3] Twenty-nine made it out themselves but the rest had to be assisted.^[2][4] Emergency services ferried the casualties to the nearest hospitals.^[3] Eighteen were hospitalised at a burns specialist unit in Siemianowice Śląskie; six were hospitalised at Sosnowiec where family members collected outside in an upset manner.^[3] Some of the deaths came quickly, whilst more did not die until some time later.^[2] Deaths were caused by burns, some of 90 degree proportions, with burns sustained to the respiratory tract.^[2][3] Many will require psychological assistance as well if they are to fully recover from the incident.^[3] Production was stopped but the rest of the mine remained in operation.^[2][4] The fire was quenched.^[3] The probable cause is thought to be methane ignition.^[2][4]

An investigation into the incident was quickly launched.^[3] Then-President of Poland Lech Kaczyński expressed his regrets: "On behalf of all Poles I convey the closest family members our sympathy and solidarity and join them in prayer and pain. I wish all the injured a quick return to health".^[3] Polish Minister of Interior and Administration, Grzegorz Schetyna, alongside a deputy minister of economy,^[4] greeted the families of those who died by visiting the region after the blast.^[2] Two days of national mourning commenced at 06:00 on 21 September 2009;^[1] flags were flown at half-mast.^[1] Several pre-scheduled events were called off as result of the disaster.^[1]

• List of mining disasters in Poland