Chemical explosion reported at Greenville plant; multiple agencies responding

GREENVILLE, Miss. (WLBT) — Multiple emergency response agencies are working to contain a reported chemical explosion and fire Wednesday morning at a Greenville chemical plant.

According to the City of Greenville, the Greenville Fire Department received notification of an explosion at Loveland, formerly known as Platte Chemical, at approximately 7:10 a.m. Nov. 4.

Preliminary information provided by plant management indicates the incident involves a fire associated with an herbicide chemical inside a hot box.

The Greenville Fire Department immediately began an emergency response and requested assistance from multiple agencies, including the Riverside and Leland fire departments.

The Greenville Mid-Delta Airport Fire Department was also requested to provide specialized firefighting foam. Pafford Emergency Medical Services was placed on standby.

The Washington County Emergency Operations Center is coordinating with the regional hazardous materials response team. Additional fire and safety departments from surrounding counties have also been dispatched.

The Environmental Protection Agency and Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality have sent personnel and representatives to the scene.

Greenville mayor urges residents to avoid area

Greenville Mayor Errick D. Simmons said the safety of residents, first responders and plant employees is the city’s top priority.

“Our first priority is the safety of our residents, our first responders, and everyone working at or near the facility,” Simmons said.

The mayor urged residents to remain calm, avoid the immediate area and give emergency personnel room to work.

Safety precautions for residents

The city issued the following safety reminders as emergency crews respond:

• Avoid the immediate vicinity of the chemical plant.
• Do not approach the facility or interfere with emergency operations.
• Residents near the plant should remain alert for official emergency instructions.
• Do not approach or enter visible smoke or chemical vapors.
• Follow any evacuation or shelter-in-place instructions issued by emergency management officials.

Officials said additional information about potential chemical exposure, air quality and any necessary public safety precautions will be released once confirmed.

The city said it will continue monitoring the situation and providing updates as verified information becomes available.

This is a developing story. Stay with WLBT for updates.

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