Rescue Efforts Intensify at Rolling Thunder Mine in Nicholas County

NICHOLAS COUNTY, W.Va. — Rescue crews are working around the clock at the Rolling Thunder Mine as efforts continue to reach a missing foreman trapped underground. Since Saturday, teams have pumped out several million gallons of water from the mine, with approximately 2.7 million gallons still remaining before safe entry can be attempted.
Once water levels reach a safe threshold, crews will continue pumping to further reduce the depth, allowing expanded underground access for search and rescue operations.
In addition to pumping efforts, Alpha is coordinating with outside partners to drill new access points from the surface. These openings may allow for the use of a capsule drill—a specialized rescue tool designed for confined spaces. While timelines vary for each method, officials say combining both approaches offers the most promising path forward.
Local, state, and federal agencies remain fully engaged in the operation, including the West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety, and Training (OMHST), Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), Emergency Management Division (EMD), and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Company safety personnel and local first responders are also on site, working in close coordination.
All agencies continue to prioritize the safe reduction of water levels and the preparation for renewed underground exploration.
Governor Jim Justice has asked all West Virginians to keep the missing foreman, his family, and the rescue teams in their prayers as the mission continues.