At least 64 crew members poisoned by gases from the USS "Nebraska" nuclear submarine generator

A total of 64 crew members have been affected by gas inhalation while aboard the USS "Nebraska" (SSBN 739) of the U.S. Navy. Apparently, the contaminating gases were caused by a diesel generator of the submarine while it was docked at the Kitsap naval base in Washington state, according to the Kitsap Sun.

The incident occurred when the nuclear-powered submarine, belonging to the Ohio class, was operating its emergency diesel generator. During that operation, a gas leak occurred that affected the crew on board the submarine.

The affected individuals exhibited symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat. All of them were taken to the hospital. As of today, six people remain hospitalized and are receiving treatment.

After the incident, another crew team took charge of ventilating the interior of the submarine and eliminating the gases before resuming the vessel's normal activity.

The U.S. Navy has clarified that the incident was not related to the submarine's nuclear reactor, but solely to the operation of the emergency diesel generator. It has also assured that the USS "Nebraska" submarine remains fully operational.

Photo: U.S. Department of War