A massive explosion and fire at Smitty’s Supply in Roseland has caused a mandatory emergency evacuation.
WATCH: Live coverage of the plant explosion in Roseland, Louisiana
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is on the scene of the explosion and is working with local authorities.
The LDEQ has conducted air monitoring on-site, and at this time, all readings are zero.
The Environmental Protection Agency is also responding to the scene of the explosion to provide additional air monitoring.
An emergency evacuation is underway at this time for those who live within a one-mile radius of Smitty’s.
Roseland Elementary has been evacuated due to the explosion. All students are being evacuated to the Central Office, located at 59656 Puleston Rd, Amite City, LA 70422.
The Amite Community Center will serve as an evacuation site for Roseland evacuees.
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality issued a statement on the explosion in Roseland:
“LDEQ is responding to the reported explosion in Roseland, working in coordination with local authorities. A one-mile radius around the facility has been evacuated. LDEQ is conducting air monitoring on-site, and all readings are zero at this time. The EPA is also responding with a contractor to provide additional air monitoring support. For information about injuries, please check with local authorities. Residents are urged to follow the guidance of local officials and heed evacuation orders and other safety instructions.”
READ MORE:Roseland air quality: What the LDEQ is doing to monitor air near explosion site
