Explosion at Greenville Chemical Plant Sends Smoke Into the Air

Emergency crews were called to the Loveland Products plant in Greenville early on November 4, after an explosion involving a herbicide chemical. A large plume of black smoke rose from the facility, and multiple agencies responded. The plant was formerly known as Platte Chemical.

Officials ordered people in the surrounding area to shelter in place as smoke spread. Firefighters contained the flames, while emergency personnel followed decontamination procedures because of possible chemical exposure. The shelter-in-place order was later lifted, and no injuries were reported.

By midmorning, the fire was under control but had not been fully extinguished. Plant owner Nutrien reported that crews had the blaze in hand, while plant leaders coordinated with first responders. Greenville Mayor Errick Simmons asked residents to stay away from the immediate area while officials assessed conditions and considered whether further protective measures were needed.

The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality sent personnel to the site. The cause of the explosion remained under investigation.