GARYVILLE, La. (WVUE) - First responders are currently at the Marathon Petroleum refinery in Garyville, addressing a situation involving the release of naphtha and a subsequent fire at a storage tank. This information comes from an official spokesperson representing the company.In a precautionary measure, authorities from St. John the Baptist Parish have issued an evacuation order for residents living within a two-mile radius of the refinery.Officials from St. John have arranged for the establishment of a shelter at East St. John Preparatory Academy Gym, located on 400 Ory Drive in LaPlace, and at West St. John High School on 480 Highway 3127. For those in need, transportation can be arranged by dialing 985-652-222 or 985-652-6338. Evacuees are advised to bring essential medications and personal belongings to the shelters.The company's spokesperson reassures that both the release and the fire have been contained within the confines of the company's property, and no injuries have been reported.As a safety precaution, air monitoring measures have been put into place.Eyewitnesses present at the scene have described a substantial volume of smoke emanating from the refinery, with the plume growing rapidly and adopting a darker hue.Due to the situation, Riverside Academy has opted to suspend classes and evacuate its premises as a preventive measure.In accordance with information provided by the New Jersey Department of Health, which has a significant chemical plant industry, 'naphtha' refers to a category of hydrocarbon mixtures derived from the distillation of petroleum. Inhalation or skin contact with naphtha can result in symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and vomiting.Authorities have implemented roadblocks on routes leading from Airline Highway toward the refinery, including closures on Terre Haute Rd and Marathon Ave.The stretch of River Road between W. 19th and S. Church St. has also been closed off.As a result of the Garyville fire, access to West 19th and River Road is currently restricted, according to St. John’s Emergency Operations Center.A comprehensive inquiry into the incident is presently underway.
