(Scypre.com) – Georgia officials have ordered evacuations for residents living near a chemical plant in Conyers after a fire at the BioLab facility spread toxic smoke across the region. The blaze, which began early Sunday morning at the plant, known for producing pool chemicals, has led authorities to issue urgent warnings for those in the area to leave as hazardous smoke clouds pollute the sky.
🚨#BREAKING: Shelter-in-Place and Evacuations Ordered Due to Biolab Chemical Plant Fire releasing massive amounts toxic smoke
— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) September 29, 2024
📌#Conyers | #Georgia
Currently, a shelter-in-place order and evacuations are underway as numerous hazmat crews and other emergency services respond to… pic.twitter.com/zvDpvnYIrv
BioLab officials assured that all employees are safe, with no injuries reported, and first responders are working alongside the company to manage the fire. According to Rockdale County Fire Chief Marian McDaniel, a sprinkler malfunction led to the dangerous spread of toxic fumes, with water reacting with chemicals inside the plant, exacerbating the situation.
By Sunday afternoon, the fire’s effects became more visible as multicolored smoke clouds hovered above the area. Videos circulating on social media showed thick smoke clouds looming over Interstate 20 (I-20), which authorities have since shut down between Salem Road and Turner Hill as a precaution. The evacuation orders apply to those living north of I-20 or between I-20 and Sigman Road, while residents south of the highway have been advised to remain cautious but are not required to evacuate.
Rockdale County Sheriff Eric Levett stressed the importance of safety, discouraging residents and visitors from venturing into the affected area out of curiosity. “This is not the time to do any type of sightseeing,” Levett warned during a press conference. Authorities emphasized the safety risks, urging everyone to avoid the area, particularly Rockdale residents, to protect both themselves and emergency personnel responding to the crisis.
Animal Services also played a crucial role in the response, urging pet owners in the evacuation zone to take their animals with them. “Please do not leave them behind,” officials advised, adding that they were relocating over 50 shelter animals to ensure their safety.
As the situation unfolds, residents remain on high alert, awaiting further instructions from authorities and hoping for a swift resolution to the potentially hazardous fire.