US Chemical Plant Explodes, Residents Urged to Stay Inside

A Fire at a Louisiana Chemical Plant Triggers Explosions, Shaking Homes Miles Away

A fire broke out at a Louisiana chemical plant, causing explosions that rattled homes several miles away. Flames and smoke billowed into the air, prompting emergency officials to urge nearby residents to take shelter indoors and turn off their air conditioners.

The incident occurred late Friday at Dow Chemical’s plant near Plaquemine, south of Baton Rouge, along the Mississippi River.

According to Iberville Parish officials, the fire originated in an area of the plant that handles ethylene oxide, a highly flammable and carcinogenic chemical.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and all workers were accounted for, as confirmed by Sheriff Bret Stassi.

Approximately 350 households within a half-mile radius of the plant were instructed to stay indoors overnight. As a precaution, residents were advised to shut off their air conditioners and ceiling fans while authorities monitored the air for hazardous materials.

In a statement issued by the Iberville Parish Council, it was announced that no hazards had been detected, and residents were allowed to leave their homes as Dow’s emergency crews continued to address the fire.

According to Sheriff Stassi, six explosions were recorded at the plant around 9:30 p.m. on Friday.

#BREAKING: Massive explosion reported at the Dow Chemical Plant

#Plaquemine | #Louisiana

There has been a massive explosion at the Dow Chemical Plant in Plaquemine, Louisiana. Emergency crews and other agencies are currently responding to the situation. Officials are… pic.twitter.com/YVMkxz6SzU

— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) July 15, 2023

Tall flames and thick smoke were visible at the site, and residents in Baton Rouge, located about 15 miles away, reported feeling their homes shake.

WATCH: Incredible new video of the explosion at Dow Chemical in Plaquemine on Friday night as seen from Addis.

: Ashley Cory Carpenter pic.twitter.com/soiXpHwNnJ

— Steve Caparotta, Ph.D. (@SteveWAFB) July 15, 2023

Kenneth Haydel, who was near the plant with his family, described hearing multiple loud explosions just seconds apart. He recounted, “We looked up in the sky and the whole sky was lit up orange.”

The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.

The post Explosion at US Chemical Plant, Residents Told to Stay Indoors appeared first on The Western Journal.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases