An explosion and subsequent fire at a Greenville chemical plant early Wednesday morning have been quelled.
According to the City of Greenville, a chemical explosion occurred at Loveland, formerly Platte Chemical. Initial information given by the plant management indicated that the incident originated from a fire associated with an herbicide chemical in a hot box.
Around 7 a.m., the Greenville Fire Department was alerted to the explosion and made its way to the scene. Joining them were the Riverside and Leland Fire Departments, Greenville Mid Delta Airport Fire Department with specialized firefighting foam, Pafford Emergency Medical Services, and officials with the Washington County Mississippi Emergency Operations Center.
Greenville Mayor Errick Simmons issued a statement urging residents to remain calm and avoid the area if possible. A few hours later, Simmons conveyed a shelter-in-place alert from the Washington County Mississippi Emergency Operations Center.
Around noon, the Washington County Mississippi Emergency Operations Center announced it was lifting the shelter-in-place alert.
“The fire is contained and fire crews are being deconned and precautionary safety measures taken for exposure to certain chemicals,” the announcement reads.
Although the explosion and fire are contained, Simmons is still encouraging residents in the area to watch for symptoms of chemical smoke exposure. Symptoms include:
- Burning or watering eyes
- Coughing or throat irritation
- Headaches or dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Chest tightness or shortness of breath
If you or a family member experiences difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, fainting, or seizures, call 911 and seek medical attention immediately.
