Chemical Plant Fire Prompts Major Evacuations and Road Closures in Georgia

Police car roof with red and blue lights.

A massive fire at the BioLab chemical plant in Conyers, Georgia, has led to evacuations and road closures.

At a Glance

A fire at BioLab in Conyers led to the evacuation of about 17,000 people and a shelter-in-place order for 77,000 residents.
The fire began around 5:30 a.m. on Sunday and generated a large plume of smoke and chemicals.
Interstate 20 was closed but reopened on Monday at 7 a.m.
No injuries have been reported, and the cause of the fire remains unknown.

BioLab Fire Incites Widespread Evacuations

The BioLab chemical plant in Conyers, Georgia, experienced a significant fire early Sunday morning that prompted the evacuation of 17,000 people and a shelter-in-place order for 77,000 more residents. The conflagration began around 5:30 a.m. and, according to the Rockdale County Emergency Management Agency, generated a substantial plume of smoke and chemicals after the plant’s sprinkler system activated, mixing water with a water-reactive chemical. Evacuations and road closures were swiftly imposed to ensure public safety.

The initial reports incorrectly stated that the sprinkler system had malfunctioned, leading to confusion among the emergency responders. BioLab, which manufactures pool and spa treatment products, saw the fire cause partial collapses of its roof and several walls. The fire was initially contained but reignited later in the day. By Monday, Interstate 20 had reopened at 7 a.m., though Rockdale County’s government facilities, including parks, remained closed.

Continued Challenges for Emergency Responders

Emergency crews have faced persistent challenges due to the ongoing release of hazardous chemicals. Chlorine, a known harmful irritant, was detected in the air, prompting the extension of the shelter-in-place order into Monday morning. Rockdale County officials advise residents to keep air conditioning units off and windows closed for safety. Additionally, various state and federal agencies are on the scene, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD).

Despite these measures, emergency responders continue to work diligently to isolate the water-reactive chemicals, as these components are still creating plumes of hazardous material. Local hospitals have also taken precautionary steps by transferring patients to other facilities. An evacuation site has been set up at JP Carr Gym, Scout Camp, and Wolverine Gym to accommodate displaced residents.

Community Impact and Ongoing Risks

The incident has had a profound impact on the local community. Schools in Newton County and Rockdale County announced closures, and officials advised residents to follow health and safety guidelines carefully. A similar incident occurred at BioLab in September 2020, caused by Hurricane Laura, which also resulted in a fire. The ongoing fire is expected to produce visible smoke for several days, and the authorities stress the potential danger and toxicity of the smoke plume.

Residents in neighboring Newton County were also advised to take precautionary measures. This fire highlights the critical need for disaster preparedness and efficient emergency response. The full extent of the health and environmental impact remains under assessment, with continuous updates expected from Rockdale County officials and federal agencies.