SHEPHERD, Texas (KIAH) — Multiple explosions are being reported in Shepherd, Texas that started with one at a chemical plant on FM 1127 Wednesday morning. The Montgomery County Police Reporter said the plant had a major explosion around 8:30 a.m.
CW39 Chief meteorologist Adam Krueger and News anchor Sharron Melton have this update
The plant is identified as Sound Resource Solutions, located at 731 FM 1127.
The San Jacinto County Office of Emergency Management is asking everyone within a one-mile radius of the plant to shelter in place and turn off all HVAC systems in nearby homes and businesses immediately.
Smoke is drifting northward as winds continue to blow from the south at five to 15 miles per hour throughout the day.
Multiple victims were reported. As first responders (fire, EMS, law enforcement) traveled there from every direction, there were additional explosions.
A section of Highway 59 has been closed in both directions from FM 1988 to Exit 451B. TxDOT is asking to avoid the area and find alternative routes. Traffic is backing up all the way into Montgomery County due to the road closure.
Shepherd, Texas explosion November 8, 2023. Courtesy Montgomery County Police Reporter
According to the San Jacinto County Office of Emergency Management, all children and employees of a nearby private school have been evacuated safely to the Shepherd ISD administration building.
As for Shepherd ISD, the district says that all their students are safe and are in contact with local officials. Parents can come to their school to pick up their child.
We have two reporters on the way to the scene for more official information.
Please check back for more information as it becomes available.
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