ROSELAND, La. — A powerful explosion Friday morning at the Smitty’s plant near the intersection of Highway 51 and Highway 10 has prompted a one-mile evacuation, the closure of major roadways, and the emergency relocation of Roseland Elementary students to Amite.

A mandatory evacuation remains in effect within a 1-mile radius of the intersection of Highways 51 and 10 as the Smitty’s Supply explosion and fire continue. Officials said a shelter has been opened at the Amite Community Center, 101 W. Chestnut St., Amite.

Louisiana State Police provided an update shortly before 10 p.m.

The fire remains active after a chemical release and fire at Smitty’s Supply, where state and federal agencies are leading a unified response, according to the Louisiana State Police.

A one-mile evacuation was

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