Power restored after 5,400 without power in St. Tammany Parish
Fire and debris are the main concerns after a Roseland plant explosion. School children were evacuated. Highway 51 is shut down. John Bel Edwards also evacuated.
ROSELAND, La. — A powerful explosion Friday morning at the Smitty’s plant near the intersection of Highway 51 and Highway 10 has prompted a one-mile evacuation, the closure of major roadways, and the emergency relocation of Roseland Elementary students to Amite.
A mandatory evacuation remains in effect within a 1-mile radius of the intersection of Highways 51 and 10 as the Smitty’s Supply explosion and fire continue. Officials said a shelter has been opened at the Amite Community Center, 101 W. Chestnut St., Amite.
Louisiana State Police provided an update shortly before 10 p.m.
The fire remains active after a chemical release and fire at Smitty’s Supply, where state and federal agencies are leading a unified response, according to the Louisiana State Police.
A one-mile evacuation was ordered, though air monitoring inside the zone has “not indicated any health concerns at this time,” a release said.
No injuries were reported, but state police said the plant sustained heavy damage. LSP, DEQ, EPA, and local agencies remain on scene, coordinating fire suppression, air monitoring, and recovery. Residents are urged to follow evacuation guidance, remain indoors if nearby.
For immediate medical concerns, please contact the Poison Center Hotline at 1 (800) 222-1222.
Officials say fire and debris remain the primary concerns — not chemicals at this time — as emergency crews continue working to contain the scene. Thick black smoke is still visible across the area, and loud blasts were heard from neighboring towns.
“It’s such a horrible time for the city of Roseland. I’m asking everyone for your prayers,” one resident told WWL’s Meg Farris.
‘Bam, Bam, Bam’: Residents describe chaotic moments
In interviews with WWL Louisiana, residents recalled terrifying moments when the blasts rocked the quiet Tangipahoa Parish town.
One woman, who lives about two miles from the site in the Shady Grove Loop neighborhood, said she rushed home after her 82-year-old mother called in distress over the fumes. Others reported hearing the “bam, bam, bam” sound of exploding tanks while witnessing fire at a nearby gas station.
“From as far as Amite, you could see the smoke,” she said. She said friends in Independence said they heard the blast too.
Officials estimate a couple hundred employees work at the Smitty’s plant. No injuries have been reported as of this update.
Roseland Elementary evacuated
Due to the proximity of the school to the blast zone, the Tangipahoa Parish Office of Homeland Security ordered the evacuation of Roseland Elementary. Students were transported by bus to the Central Office in Amite, where parents and guardians can pick them up.
“The safety of students and staff is at the top of our priority list,” school officials said. “Please be patient and work with us during this event.”
Evacuation zone expands, Highway 51 remains closed
The evacuation zone was initially limited but expanded to a 1-mile radius around the site. According to officials, the decision was made out of an abundance of caution due to the potential for falling debris and active fire.
Highway 51 at Highway 10 remains closed, and drivers are urged to take alternative routes.
The Tangipahoa Parish Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains active, and teams are still assessing the situation.
John Bel Edwards among evacuees
Former Governor John Bel Edwards, a lifelong resident of the Roseland/Amite area, was among those who evacuated. He has not yet issued a public statement, but officials confirmed he is safe.
This is a developing story. The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office and WWL Louisiana will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
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