Coal Mine Explosion Kills 25 in West Virginia

Rescue teams plan to search more today for four workers missing in a West Virginia coal mine where a massive explosion killed 25.

It’s the worst U.S. mining disaster in more than two decades.

Rescuers will first drill bore holes to vent toxic gas. Officials say the chances are slim that the miners survived. West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin says he is hoping for a miracle that the four missing miners will be found alive.

The four had not been located before dangerous levels of methane gas forced rescue crews out of the mine. The cause of Monday’s blast was not known but safety officials say the operation has a history of violations for not properly ventilating highly combustible methane gas.

President Barack Obama is offering his condolences and any necessary federal help.