A fire and an explosion have been reported at the Quaker Oats factory in downtown Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Videos circulating on social media show large plumes of smoke rising from the area. The cause of the fire remains unknown.
Fire department provides update
The Cedar Rapids Fire Department said emergency crews were dispatched following reports of an explosion at the facility.
In a statement, the department said:
“At approximately 4:45 p.m., Cedar Rapids Police and Fire were dispatched by Joint Communications Agency personnel to an explosion in the 400 block of 2nd Street Southeast. This is the Quaker Oats building.
Cedar Rapids Fire Department personnel located what appears to be evidence of an explosion and subsequent fire.
As of 5:30 p.m., all plant workers have been accounted for. Firefighting operations continue and more information will be made available when possible.”
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City officials confirm emergency response
The City of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, also issued a statement confirming that fire crews were responding to a reported structure fire at the Quaker Oats facility.
The city said, “Cedar Rapids Fire Department Responds to Reported Structure Fire at Quaker Oats At approximately 4:44 p.m. today, the Cedar Rapids Fire Department was dispatched to 418 2nd Street NE (Quaker Oats facility) following a report of a structure fire. Fire crews are currently on scene responding.”
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Senator Chuck Grassley responds
Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley also addressed the incident, expressing concern for those at the facility and the emergency personnel responding.
In a post on social media, Grassley said, “I’ve just been alerted to the fire in Cedar Rapids at Quaker Oats I’m praying for the safety of those in or near the building and for the first responders on the scene.”
Witness reports
Several witnesses and local residents took to social media to report the incident.
One person wrote on X, “HUGE cloud of smoke downtown Cedar Rapids, hope everyone is safe!”
Another added, “Quaker Oats Cedar Rapids Iowa is on fire! Check on your people!!”
A third person reported, “Saw it coming home on the interstate. Hope everyone is safe!!”