Massive Pipeline Explosion Near Brighton Under Investigation

Blast causes fire that lasts for hours, but no injuries or damage to homes reported

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A pipeline carrying natural gas liquids exploded on Saturday near Brighton, Iowa, causing a large fire that lasted several hours. The pipeline is part of the Mid-America Pipeline System owned by Houston-based Enterprise Products Partners L.P. Authorities are investigating the cause of the explosion, which occurred in a rural area between 315th and 325th streets. No injuries or damage to residential structures were reported, and the fire was brought under control by firefighters from six departments.

Why it matters

The pipeline that exploded had been operating for over 20 years without the proper permits, resulting in a $1.8 million fine against the operator. This incident raises questions about pipeline safety regulations and oversight, as well as the potential risks of transporting volatile natural gas liquids through rural areas.

The details

The pipeline explosion occurred around 10:50 a.m. on Saturday, sending up a huge fireball visible for miles. Firefighters from six departments were able to bring the fire under control by 12:57 p.m. The pipeline is part of the Mid-America Pipeline System, which transports natural gas liquids from a hub in Kansas to petrochemical plants and propane markets in the Midwest. Enterprise Products Partners, the Houston-based company that owns the pipeline, stated it is working with authorities to investigate the cause of the release.

  • The explosion occurred around 10:50 a.m. on Saturday, February 16, 2026.
  • Firefighters brought the fire under control by 12:57 p.m. the same day.

The players

Enterprise Products Partners L.P.

A Houston-based company that owns and operates the Mid-America Pipeline System, which includes the pipeline that exploded near Brighton.

Iowa Utilities Commission

The state regulatory agency that fined Enterprise Products $1.8 million for operating 750 miles of hazardous liquid pipelines in Iowa without proper permits between 2002 and 2023.

Merlin Miller

A rural Fairfield resident who was in a hobby plane with his son when they spotted the explosion and fire, and took photos and video of the incident.

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What’s next

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the pipeline explosion, and Enterprise Products Partners says it is cooperating with regulators. The Iowa Utilities Commission will likely review the incident and its previous enforcement actions against the company.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for stronger oversight and enforcement of pipeline safety regulations, especially for older pipelines that may have been grandfathered in without proper permitting. It also raises concerns about the transportation of volatile natural gas liquids through rural areas and the potential risks to nearby communities.