🗞️ Roseland, LA — August 25, 2025
A powerful explosion at the Smitty’s Supply manufacturing plant in Roseland, Louisiana, has rocked Tangipahoa Parish, prompting a mandatory one-mile evacuation zone, school closures, and ongoing environmental monitoring as crews work to contain the blaze.
The explosion occurred shortly before 1 p.m. Friday near the intersection of Highway 51 and Highway 10, sending thick black smoke into the sky and triggering a series of smaller blasts throughout the weekend. Officials say the fire is now 90% contained, but hotspots and debris remain active.
🚨 Evacuation Orders and Shelter Setup
Tangipahoa Parish officials ordered an immediate evacuation for all residents within a one-mile radius of the plant. As of Sunday, 42 people were staying at the emergency shelter at the Amite Community Center. While most residents complied, some chose to remain in their homes, prompting deputies to maintain a perimeter around the site.
Authorities are urging residents near the blast zone to stay indoors, avoid contact with soot, and wash hands frequently due to concerns about hydrocarbon chemicals released in the fire. Air quality readings have so far shown levels below actionable thresholds, but continuous monitoring is underway.
🏫 School Closures and Student Relocation
Roseland Elementary School, located within the evacuation zone, was evacuated Friday afternoon. Students were transported by bus to the Tangipahoa Parish Central Office in Amite, where parents were able to pick them up safely. The school will remain closed Monday, and students living within the evacuation zone are excused from attendance until further notice.
Roseland Montessori will also remain closed, while all other schools in the district are expected to operate normally. The Tangipahoa Parish School System is offering support to displaced families under the McKinney-Vento Act, including assistance with uniforms and supplies.
🌊 Environmental Concerns and Response
Officials have confirmed that debris from the explosion has entered the nearby Tangipahoa River. Water samples are being collected to assess environmental impact, and containment berms are being constructed around the site. Nearly 150 personnel from local, state, and federal agencies are involved in the response effort.
🚧 Road Closures and Flight Restrictions
Highway 51 at Highway 10 remains closed, and a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) has been established over the site, prohibiting drones and aircraft within a three-nautical-mile radius up to 5,000 feet.
📣 Community Impact
Residents described the explosion as a series of deafening “bam, bam, bam” sounds, with flames visible from neighboring towns like Amite and Independence. Former Governor John Bel Edwards, a lifelong resident of the area, was among those evacuated.
As the investigation into the cause of the explosion continues, Tangipahoa Parish President Robby Miller urged patience and caution:
For updates and assistance, residents are encouraged to follow official parish channels and contact local emergency services.