News Summary
On August 22, Roseland, Louisiana, experienced a significant explosion and fire at Smitty’s Supply, leading to mandatory evacuations within a one-mile radius. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported. The explosion occurred when about 400 employees were on-site, prompting a rapid response from emergency agencies. Residents worried about environmental impacts due to oily residue falling on nearby properties as the EPA took charge of response efforts. The evacuation order was lifted on August 26, but concerns remain about the incident’s lasting effects on the community and the surrounding environment.
Roseland, Louisiana experienced a significant explosion and fire at Smitty’s Supply on August 22, prompting mandatory evacuations for residents living within a one-mile radius. Emergency officials acted swiftly, confirming that the fire erupted shortly before 1 p.m. Fortunately, as of the latest updates, there have been no reported injuries or fatalities resulting from the incident.
Approximately 400 employees were at Smitty’s Supply, which specializes in various industrial and supply services. Following the explosion, firefighters worked tirelessly, aided by multiple agencies, to combat the raging blaze as it continued to produce explosions throughout the afternoon.
Residents from nearby Amite reported an oily residue falling onto their vehicles, homes, and swimming pools, raising concerns about safety and environmental impact. In response, a dedicated command center was established, incorporating agencies such as the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and state police. Early environmental monitoring and air quality testing indicated levels within permissible limits, although residents remained apprehensive about potential health impacts.
The evacuation order was officially lifted on August 26, enabling residents to return to their homes. However, road closures remained in effect in the vicinity of Smitty’s Supply to facilitate ongoing emergency response efforts.
As the situation progressed, the EPA took charge of both the response and clean-up operations, with Smitty’s Supply agreeing to cooperate fully with the agency’s protocols. Local leaders, including Mayor Van Showers, have voiced frustration over the lack of clear information regarding the exact chemicals released during the explosion, emphasizing the community’s desire for transparency and clear communication.
In light of the disaster, residents have been advised to document any damage to their properties and were provided with supplies at a drive-through distribution point. Approximately 200 individuals sought shelter following the blast, with seven people evaluated and subsequently released from a local emergency room.
As a result of the explosion, a class-action lawsuit has been filed, and the Tangipahoa River remains partially closed due to contamination issues, with oil residue reportedly stretching several miles downstream along the river.
Smitty’s Supply announced its commitment to rebuilding and supporting the community in the wake of this incident, as local leaders and residents continue to press for improved communication and safety measures concerning the fallout from the explosion and fire.
This incident marks a significant event for Roseland and its surrounding communities, prompting discussions about emergency preparedness and the need for greater awareness of environmental safety standards in industrial operations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WAFB: Mandatory Evacuation Order Lifted
- Wikipedia: Roseland, Louisiana
- WDSU: Louisiana Plant Explosion Video
- Google Search: Roseland Louisiana Explosion
- ABC News: Louisiana Business Explosion
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Louisiana
- NOLA: Roseland Smitty’s Supply Explosion
- Google News: Roseland Explosion
- WWLTV: Roseland Explosion Residents Demand Answers
- Google Scholar: Roseland Louisiana Explosion
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
