A massive fire continues to burn at a Louisiana plant following an explosion on Friday, prompting authorities to maintain an evacuation order for everyone living within a one-mile radius of the site.
The explosion occurred at Smitty’s Supply, a lubricant production facility located in Roseland, Tangipahoa Parish. According to its website, Smitty’s Supply manufactures and distributes lubricants, including motor oil, and employs about 400 people. The incident was first reported just before 1 p.m. Friday, Parish President Robby Miller said. Soon after, officials ordered a mandatory evacuation for those nearby, later extending it to cover a one-mile radius.
According to Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Gerald Sticker, 42 people had taken shelter, with a total of approximately 800 residents impacted by the blast. The Louisiana State Police announced in a statement that crews reported that the blaze was about 90% contained as of Saturday night: “teams have worked tirelessly all day and will continue overnight to strengthen containment lines and assist with recovery.” Smaller secondary explosions continued overnight, which officials said was consistent with earlier activity since the fire began.
Deputies are keeping a perimeter around the area as firefighters continue battling the flames, with authorities warning residents to avoid direct exposure to soot from the fire, which is believed to include hydrocarbons and other combustible materials. Louisiana State Police Sgt. William Huggins advised residents to limit outdoor activity, wash their hands often, avoid touching their faces, and steer clear of soot whenever possible. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
Officials are also investigating debris found in the Tangipahoa River and plan to test water samples to evaluate environmental impacts. The contents of the soot remain under review. Air monitoring results so far have shown readings “below an actionable threshold,” according to Huggins. The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality has been monitoring the area, but the cause of the explosion is still unknown.
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