No injuries have been reported following an explosion at an ammonia plant near Yazoo County.
The incident occurred at the CF Industries facility on U.S. 49 on Wednesday around 4:25 p.m. Residents near Renshaw Road and Generette Road are asked to evacuate the area immediately, and individuals in the area are urged to shelter in place, per Gov. Tate Reeves.
The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, and the Mississippi Department of Public Safety are currently assisting local law enforcement.
“Thank you to all of Mississippi’s first responders and emergency managers for quickly responding to the leak,” Reeves said.
In coordination with local emergency management officials, the American Red Cross has opened a reception center in Yazoo City to support residents affected. The reception center is located at Yazoo County High School. The address is 191 Panther Drive in Yazoo City.
The center is now open and will provide a safe, climate-controlled environment for residents who need temporary assistance or are unable to remain in their homes. Red Cross volunteers are on-site to offer comfort, information, and support. Those who choose to come to the reception center should bring essential items they may need for an overnight stay.
Essential items include prescription medications and medical supplies, important documents, personal hygiene items, cell phone chargers, and comfort items for children, if applicable.
“We are here to support the Yazoo City community during this challenging time,” said Annette Rowland, the regional communications director for American Red Cross Alabama and Mississippi. “Our priority is to ensure everyone has a safe place to go and access to the resources they need.”
Local and state agencies continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
