‘Multiple explosions’ reported at coastal Georgia chemical plant, neighborhoods evacuated

GLYNN COUNTY, Ga. — Emergency crews have responded to a chemical plant in coastal Georgia after reports of multiple explosions.

The Glynn County Sheriff’s Office confirmed a large fire at the Symrise Chemical Plant and posted a photo that shows large plumes of smoke.

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Officials have evacuated the plant and have ordered for the Hickory Bluff, Sanctuary Cove, Satilla Shores and Royal Oaks neighborhoods to evacuate.

The fire is now contained but will continue to burn throughout the day. One firefighter has been taken to a hospital for heat exhaustion, Channel 2′s sister station Action News Jax reported.

Capt. Eric Proswimmer said heat from the fire caused three metal tanks containing chemicals to explode. Firefighters have used more than 1 million gallons of water stored in tanks on the site.

Officials will alert those who have evacuated via social media when it is safe for those who have evacuated to return. A shelter has been set up for evacuees, which is about 100 households, Action News Jax reported.

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The fire happened during regular production hours at the facility, which manufactures fragrance ingredients, Symrise said. Proswimmer said there were six to eight people working at the plant at the time of the fire and they are all accounted for and safe.

Symrise said it does not believe that the fire will cause additional health hazards to the local community and the company said it will closely cooperate and support local authorities in analyzing the causes for the fire as soon as the authorities allow return to the area.

Gov. Brian Kemp issued a statement Monday morning about the fire.

“Earlier today, local authorities alerted my office of a major fire at the Symrise chemical plant off of Highway 17 in Brunswick. I immediately instructed Director Stallings of the Georgia Emergency Management Agency, Colonel Wright of the Georgia State Patrol, Director Rick Dunn of the Environmental Protection Division, and Georgia Department of Transportation leaders to direct all available state resources to assist local responders.

“As the situation develops throughout the day, Marty and I are asking our fellow Georgians to join us in praying for this community and the brave first responders actively battling this fire. Continue to consult local news and public safety officials for any updates.”

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