World · North America · 1 hr ago

Explosion and fire at Mississippi chemical plant prompt shelter order

Explosion and fire at Mississippi chemical plant prompt shelter order

An explosion sparked a fire at a chemical plant in Greenville, Mississippi, on Wednesday morning.

The plant, operated by Loveland Products, makes fertilizer and crop protection products, and preliminary information linked the fire to a herbicide chemical.

Residents in two areas near the plant were ordered to shelter indoors, close windows and doors, and turn off systems that draw in outdoor air.

The smoke may cause irritation, coughing, dizziness and breathing problems, and officials advised people to call 911 for serious symptoms.

No injuries had been reported, while firefighters worked to extinguish the fire and state environmental staff were sent to the area.

Officials are monitoring the situation, and residents should avoid the plant area and follow any further emergency instructions.

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What people are saying

Errick D. SimmonsGreenville mayor
We are coordinating with emergency response agencies to assess the situation, contain the fire, and determine whether additional protective measures are necessary
via ClickOnDetroit
I ask our citizens to remain calm, avoid the immediate area, and allow our firefighters and emergency personnel the space they need to do their jobs safely and effectively.
via Yahoo