Omaha plant blast: multiple deaths, says fire chief

TWO people have been killed and 10 others seriously hurt in an explosion and partial building collapse at an animal feed processing plant in Nebraska.

Douglas County Attoey Don Kleine says he's been notified about two deaths in the explosion at the plant in Omaha.

It's unclear if the death toll will rise as crews sift through the rubble of the Inteational Nutrition plant.

Interim Omaha Fire Chief Beie Kanger says the search is progressing slowly because the structure is unsafe.

Kanger said he doesn't believe anyone remaining inside is alive.

But officials haven't said how many people didn't make it out.

Thirty-eight people were working. Officials say two died, 10 were hospitalised and seven were hurt but refused treatment. They have not said how many of the 19 others escaped.

The wreckage of the animal feed processing plant after the explosion. Source: AP

Kanger says the plant is unstable, so rescuers must work deliberately to ensure their safety.

Kanger says 38 people were inside the building when the explosion occurred Monday moing. Ten were taken to hospitals and four are in critical condition.

The cause of the blast has not yet been determined, but Kanger says there were no hazardous chemicals at the plant.