PICKAWAY COUNTY, OH – A fire and explosion at a fertilizer plant early Wednesday morning triggered a hazardous materials situation near the intersection of Five Points Pike and State Route 56, according to Pickaway County emergency dispatchers.
The incident occurred at Nutrien, a fertilizer company in the area. Emergency crews responded to the scene shortly after the explosion, which ignited a fire that officials say could take hours to burn out.
According to emergency management spokesperson Cline, no one was inside the facility at the time of the explosion, and no injuries have been reported. However, authorities expressed concern about potentially hazardous water run-off caused by the fire.
While residents are not currently in danger, Cline said those living nearby should remain indoors as a precaution until the smoke has dissipated. There have been some minor reports of respiratory irritation, but no serious health issues have been confirmed.
As of this morning, the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office has reopened nearby roads, but is urging the public to steer clear of the area as emergency crews continue to assess and contain the situation.
Officials are continuing to monitor air and water quality and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
