Officials said a large fire that sent smoke plumes towering over a northern Illinois chemical plant has been contained and no injuries have been reported, according to a story from the Associated Press.
After the fire began on January 11 at Carus Chemical in La Salle, Illinois, local officials sent an emergency alert advising people who live in the city’s third and fourth wards to shelter in place. La Salle Fire Chief Jerry Janick said that order remains in place as officials consider next steps.
Carus Chemical workers were evacuated from the plant and all of them have been accounted for, said La Salle Police Chief Mike Smudzinski.
There were reports of explosions being heard at about 9 a.m. followed by smoke that was visible from the plant, the News-Tribune reported.
Janick said he couldn’t confirm any explosions. He said it’s not known yet what caused the blaze.
Carus Chemical manufactures phosphates, polymers and catalysts aimed at helping its customers with environmental concerns, according to the company’s website.
This is a developing news story. For more information, visit the Associated Press.
