A fire at the BioLab chemical plant in Conyers, Georgia, on Sunday morning led to the evacuation of thousands of residents and the closure of a major highway. The plant, which produces chemicals for pool and spa maintenance, caught fire around 5:30 a.m., sending plumes of toxic smoke into the air.
Firefighters responded quickly but had to use water to combat the flames, which caused a reaction with the chemicals, intensifying the fire. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the fire’s impact was felt across the region.
Approximately 17,000 residents were ordered to evacuate, and authorities advised others to stay indoors and avoid inhaling the chemical fumes. Interstate 20 was shut down as smoke from the fire spread, leading to significant disruptions.
This marks the third major fire at the BioLab facility in the past two decades, sparking concern among local residents. With previous fires in 2004 and 2020 causing similar issues, many are now questioning the plant’s continued operation and the risks it poses to the surrounding community.
As firefighters work to fully contain the fire, residents and local officials are left grappling with the ongoing threat posed by the plant. Some roads have reopened, but evacuation orders remain in place for parts of the area.
