A chemical plant in Lake Charles, Louisiana is the center of attention for emergency crews who are trying to get the chemical fire under control.
Chemical Fire Explosion Not Contained
Large amounts of thick, dark smoke can be seen coming from the plant just shortly after Hurricane Laura wreaked havoc on the area.
BREAKING: Large Chemical leak from a plant in Lake Charles flowing over I-10, extremely dangerous situation. #hurricanelaura pic.twitter.com/61GA37NR1v
— Brad Sowder (@TheBradSowder) August 27, 2020
The hurricane brought with it extreme winds and heavy rain that greatly affected Louisiana starting Thursday morning.
Hurricane Strikes the U.S.
Hurricane Laura, being a dangerous Category 4 hurricane caused winds of 150 mph. It has now been downgraded to a Category 1 storm.
“As we wake up today, everyone must remember that the threat Laura poses to Louisiana is ongoing,” Lousiana Gov. John Bel Edwards tweeted Thursday morning. “Stay home, continue to heed the warnings and instructions of local officials and monitor your local news to stay informed.”
A 14-year-old girl was the state’s first fatality due to the storm when a tree fell on her home, the governor reports.
“We do expect that there could be more fatalities,” Edward’s Deputy Chief of Staff Christina Stephens tweeted.
Chemical Plant Fire Is Not the Only Issue
The burning chemical plant is not Lake Charles’ only current problem, skyscrapers and buildings have had its materials torn off and metal is scattered around the streets.
Here is a look at pre and post #HurricaneLaura views from our Lake Charles office staff (who are all safe this morning).
*top photos taken 5:30p 8/26, bottom photos taken 7a 8/27* pic.twitter.com/5raNI6Z1VD
— Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal (@LAFIREMARSHAL) August 27, 2020
News 4SA is currently reporting on the chemical plant fire and are providing breaking details as it becomes available.