A series of explosions ripped through Smitty’s Supply, a lubricant blender and distributor based in Roseland, Louisiana, starting a fire that sent flames and black smoke many meters into the sky, according to local news reports. First responders described it at a press conference as the worst fire in the area in memory.
No injuries were sustained by the blast or fire to workers at the plant or local residents. But authorities strongly advised against any contact with black soot deposited on the surroundings and into the nearby river.
The cause of the initial explosion, which was reported shortly before 1 p.m. local time Friday, is as yet unknown, according to a local government representative. Several others were heard throughout the weekend.
Authorities evacuated residents living within a 1-mile radius of the blast. No injuries were reported among the staff at the plant and none was reported from anyone outside.
Smitty’s sells lubricants, brake fluid and antifreeze, among other products. It has on-site 8.7 million-gallon bulk storage tanks.