August 25, 2025

Fire Contained at Smitty’s Supply Plant in Roseland, Louisiana

News Summary

A fire at the Smitty’s Supply plant in Roseland, Louisiana, is reported to be 90% contained following an explosion last Friday. Thankfully, there have been no reported injuries or fatalities, but a mandatory evacuation order has been instituted for residents within a one-mile radius. Emergency services are actively working to contain pollutants and protect nearby waterways while local authorities ensure safety measures are in place. A shelter has been established for evacuees as recovery efforts continue.

Roseland, Louisiana

A fire at Smitty’s Supply plant in Roseland, Louisiana, is currently reported to be 90% contained as of Sunday morning, following an explosion that occurred at the facility on Friday around 12:50 p.m. The explosion led to flames shooting into the sky and resulted in thick black smoke that enveloped the surrounding area. Fortunately, authorities have confirmed that no injuries or fatalities have been reported from this incident.

As a precaution, a mandatory evacuation order has been issued, affecting anyone within a one-mile radius of the plant. This evacuation order remains in effect as of noon Sunday and has impacted approximately 800 residents in the vicinity. Local authorities have emphasized to residents that they should not attempt to clean soot or debris that may have settled, as the substance could contain unknown contaminants.

Ongoing Response Efforts

Response crews are currently engaged in removing any structural debris and addressing covered hotspots at the site of the fire. A containment berm is being established around the facility to assist with the ongoing recovery operations. According to air monitoring reports, harmful contaminants in the area remain at non-detectable levels, providing some reassurance to those involved in the recovery efforts.

Environmental response teams are also focusing on the Tangipahoa River and surrounding waterways. Approximately 1,900 feet of containment boom has been deployed in the river to prevent the spread of contaminants. Additional containment measures have been taken in a nearby drainage ditch to enhance protection of the waterways. To further assist recovery operations, eight airboats are being utilized to navigate these areas.

Monitoring and Recovery

Louisiana State Police are conducting additional drone surveys and aerial assessments to monitor the situation from above. Two frack tanks, which together hold a total of 900 barrels of fluid, have already been recovered by response teams. Roads near the plant have been closed to the public to ensure safety during ongoing operations.

In response to the evacuation order, a shelter has been opened at the Amite Community Center on West Chestnut Street, providing temporary accommodations for evacuees. Officials from multiple agencies, including local, state, and federal responders, have mobilized to assist with the incident and provide support to affected residents.

Incident Background

The exact cause of the fire at Smitty’s Supply plant remains undetermined, and there is currently no precise estimate on when the fire will be fully extinguished. The explosion at the facility raised immediate concerns about the surrounding environment, prompting rapid action from emergency services and local authorities.

A temporary flight restriction has been enacted within a three-mile radius of the incident site to safeguard both air and ground operations. Local officials continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that the necessary measures are in place to protect the health and safety of those in the area.

As fire containment efforts progress, updates will be critical in the coming days to inform residents and authorities alike about recovery timelines and safety measures.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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.

STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER

Stay Connected

More Updates

Crowd enjoying a festival in New Orleans on a sunny day

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Submit