Yazoo Plant Explosion

Shelter-in-place order lifted by Mississippi governor after scare

Certain Mississippi residents have gone through a scary 24 hour period following an explosion and subsequent chemical leak at a CF Industries ammonia plant in Yazoo City. The explosion occurred at roughly 4:25 PM on Wednesday (11/5), prompting a shelter-in-place order from Mississippi governor Tate Reeves while air quality was being monitored. The governor lifted that order earlier today (11/6), and provided a general update on the situation on social media.

"Update on the chemical leak at CF Industries’ plant north of Yazoo City: The state of Mississippi has not received any reports of injuries or deaths. MDEQ is on site and actively monitoring air quality. Initial results were 25 PPM, which allowed rail traffic to begin. The shelter-in-place order has not been lifted and will remain in effect until air monitor readings begin trending downward. Traffic control points have been established on U.S. 49 to divert traffic. This will continue until MDEQ and CF Industries give Yazoo County the all-clear. The American Red Cross has set up a reception center at Yazoo County High School’s gymnasium. At this time, no one has checked in. Besides the state agency personnel who are responding to the leak, the state of Mississippi has not received any additional requests for resources."

Reeves went on to list the large number of state and local agencies, as well as those in the private sector, that are closely working together in the effort. Those assisting in the response efforts include: MEMA MS State Department of Health, MS Highway Patrol MS Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, & Parks, Yazoo County EMA, Yazoo County Sheriff’s Office, Yazoo City Fire Department, Yazoo City Police Department, Madison Police Department, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Madison County EMA, Warren County Sheriff’s Office, Pafford (8 ambulances), Pafford Air One Delta (1 helicopter), AirCare (1 helicopter), UMMC FAST Team, CF Industries, and CN Railroad.

"Our top priority is the safety of Mississippians," the governor added. "The state of Mississippi will continue to monitor the situation, respond as necessary, and provide updates as they become available."