Massive Explosion and Fire at Smitty’s Supply Plant Prompts Widespread Evacuations

Roseland, LA - August 22, 2025

Powerful explosions and a blaze at Smitty’s Supply in Roseland, Louisiana, led to a mandatory evacuation. Emergency authorities ordered residents and a nearby elementary school to leave on Friday afternoon.

At around 12:53 p.m. CST, Tangipahoa Parish emergency dispatchers got reports of explosions. They also noticed a large plume of black smoke rising from the plant at the intersection of U.S. Highway 51 and Louisiana Highway 10. The blasts went on and off in the afternoon. They set many bulk storage tanks on fire and sent debris flying into nearby fields.

By 1:15 p.m., parish officials set up an evacuation zone. It extends one mile around the facility and includes Arcola and parts of Roseland. Roseland Elementary School, about 4,000 feet from the plant, was evacuated by school buses to the Tangipahoa Parish School Board office in Amite. Authorities set up a shelter at the Amite Community Center. This is for those displaced who have no other place to stay.

Local agencies, like the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Police, and nearby fire departments, teamed up with plant staff to fight the fire. The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality checked air quality. Thick smoke covered nearby roads, leading to temporary closures of Highway 51 at La. 10.

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry said on social media that there were no reported injuries among plant workers or local residents. This is despite the explosion and fire’s severity. ““We are monitoring this situation closely. Please follow the guidance of your local officials. We are praying for everyone’s safety,” the governor posted on X.

Smitty’s Supply started in 1969 and is based in Roseland. It has three manufacturing plants across the country and can store over 8.7 million gallons. The company makes many products, including lubricants, greases, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and antifreeze. These are sold under its own and special brands.

Officials have not identified the cause of the explosions. They also can’t say when the fire will be out completely. An investigation led by state fire marshals and environmental regulators is underway.

• Sources: Fox26 Houston; WBRZ; Associated Press