 "An explosion at an automotive supply company in Roseland forced nearby residents and an elementary school to evacuate. AP")
A massive explosion followed by a fire rocked an automotive supply company in Roseland, Louisiana. Video of the incident showed the building of Smitty’s Supply, an automotive supply company, engulfed in flames as thick black smoke took over the skies of a rural community.
The incident soon prompted mandatory evacuations within a one-mile (1.6-kilometre) radius. No injuries have been reported by the authorities as of now. An elementary school nearby was evacuated as a precautionary measure.
Roseland, the town where the incident happened, houses about 1,100 residents located roughly 50 miles (80 kilometres) northeast of Baton Rouge. The whole town was placed under emergency, and firefighters worked for hours to contain the blaze.
Tangipahoa Parish President Robby Miller called it a “godsend” that no one was hurt in the incident. “We are doing our best to protect people, structures, and the environment," he added.
Officials have not yet determined the cause of the explosion, the potential chemical hazards, or how long it may take to bring the situation under control.
Soon after the incident, Governor Jeff Landry urged residents to follow evacuation orders and said the state is “praying for everyone’s safety.” The supply company employs about 400 people, manufactures and distributes automotive lubricants and parts, including oils, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and antifreeze.
The company is yet to issue a statement regarding the incident. Environmental agencies, including the Department of Environmental Quality and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, are currently monitoring air quality and assessing any environmental impact.
Meanwhile, Local school officials transported students by bus to a safe location following evacuation guidance from the Office of Homeland Security.