Shepherd, Texas, chemical plant explosion on FM 1127 triggers mass evacuation

A massive explosion at a chemical plant Sound Resource Solutions in Shepherd, San Jacinto County, Texas along Farm to Market 1127 has injured several people triggering immediate emergency response.

Emergency personnel have reached the location to aid following the explosion.

Authorities request that everyone within an eight-kilometre (five-mile) radius stay put. 

The area has been evacuated, including a neighbouring school. No verified reports of casualties exist. The explosion's cause is still unknown.

It's probable that there will be a lot of emergency personnel in the region in the upcoming hours. Disruptions to business and transport in the region are anticipated. There may be further evacuations and traffic closures.

A one-mile region around FM 1127 was placed under a shelter-in-place. The smoke cloud is moving away from Houston and towards the northeast.

FM 1127 is fully closed; one individual was hurt in the explosion and was sent to the hospital.

Additionally blocked is US 59 from FM 1988 to Exit 451B.

Goodrich ISD has left the area under Polk County Emergency Management Services' recommendation. 

There were several reported casualties. There were further explosions as first responders (fire, EMS, and law enforcement) arrived from all directions.

From FM 1988 to Exit 451B, a portion of Highway 59 is blocked in both directions. TxDOT is requesting that you steer clear of the area and use detours.

The Shepard ISD administrative building is the safe haven for all the children and staff of a nearby private school, according to the San Jacinto County Office of Emergency Management.