La. state police: Blast, fire at chemical plant
At least 30 taken to hospital
GEISMAR, La. (AP) — Louisiana State Police say a reported explosion has started a fire at a chemical plant and sent at least 30 people to the hospital.
Capt. Doug Cain says the fire broke out Thursday morning at The Williams Companies Inc. plant in the town of Geismar (GYS’-mahr). The plant makes highly flammable gases that are basic building blocks in the petrochemical industry.
The town is about 20 miles southeast of Baton Rouge. Residents in the surrounding area have been asked by state police to stay indoors and close all windows and doors.
Cain says he doesn’t know how many people were hurt, but sees ambulances taking a couple of people from the plant.
The company’s website says the plant puts out about 1.3 billion pounds of ethylene and 90 million pounds of polymer grade propylene a year.