dailyloe.com – An explosion occurred at the Chalmette refinery in St. Bernard Parish on Friday afternoon, with a large law enforcement response mobilized to the site.
A significant plume of smoke was visible over the refinery, though the cause of the explosion remains unclear. Sources indicate that all employees at the refinery are accounted for, and there have been no reported injuries.
The explosion was reportedly heard and felt throughout the parish, prompting the temporary closure of the eastbound lanes of West St. Bernard Highway from Jackson Boulevard to Palmisano Boulevard for emergency responders. These lanes have since reopened.
Additionally, schools in proximity to the refinery have been placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure. This situation is still developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
