A fire broke out at a Dow Chemical plant in Louisiana, leading to a series of explosions that rattled homes in the vicinity and engulfed the area in thick smoke and flames.
The incident occurred on the evening of July 14 at the facility located near Plaquemine, south of Baton Rouge, along the Mississippi River. Emergency officials swiftly responded to the scene, urging residents within a half-mile radius of the plant to stay indoors and turn off their air conditioners as a precautionary measure.
According to authorities in Iberville Parish, where the chemical plant is situated, the fire originated in a section of the facility that handles ethylene oxide—a highly flammable and toxic chemical. Sheriff Bret Stassi confirmed that no injuries were reported, and Dow Chemical confirmed that all employees were accounted for.
The company assured the public that measures were being taken to contain and extinguish the blaze, while closely monitoring air quality in collaboration with state environmental officials and an independent contractor.
Approximately 350 households near the plant were advised to remain indoors overnight until further notice. Local officials emphasized that no hazardous substances had been detected in the air, providing reassurance to the affected residents. However, ethylene oxide exposure, even in small amounts, can result in severe health effects such as lung injuries, vomiting, and diarrhea. Long-term exposure to the chemical has also been linked to cancer, as noted by the U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration.
Eyewitnesses reported a total of six explosions occurring around 9:30 p.m. on July 14, causing flames to rise and casting an orange glow across the night sky. The intensity of the blasts was felt by residents as far as 24 kilometers away in Baton Rouge, prompting concerns throughout the region. One witness, Kenneth Haydel, described the terrifying experience of witnessing the explosions and seeing the sky illuminated by the resulting fire.
Dow Chemical expressed its commitment to resolving the situation and ensuring the safety of its employees and the surrounding community. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire and will provide updates as the situation unfolds.
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