A chemical fire erupted early Sunday at a swimming pool supply plant in Rockdale County, roughly 24 miles east of Atlanta, leading to the closure of Interstate 20 and evacuations in the vicinity.
The incident, which began around 5:30 a.m. at the BioLab facility—a division of KIK Consumer Products—released a plume of hazardous chemicals, causing alarm among local residents and officials. Rockdale County Fire Chief Marian McDaniel reported that the fire was sparked when a water-reactive chemical reacted with water from the building’s sprinkler system and electrical wiring.
While details regarding the specific chemical involved remain unclear, a BioLab spokesperson reassured the public that all employees were safe and accounted for. They are currently collaborating with first responders to manage the situation.
Due to safety concerns, the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office ordered evacuations for residents in the northern part of the county, while those unable to leave were advised to shelter in place with doors and windows sealed. The evacuation zone was expanded at 1 p.m.
Interstate 20 was closed in both directions between Salem Road and Turner Hill Road, causing significant traffic delays. Officials have not indicated when it might reopen.
To assess the environmental impact, representatives from the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are on-site monitoring air quality, as the chemical plume has displayed a worrying shift in color—from white to black and then orange smoke.
Residents have reported ash falling on their properties, raising concerns about potential environmental hazards. The Rockdale County Emergency Management Agency has urged residents to stay indoors and keep windows tightly closed.
Firefighters are carefully extracting water-reactive chemicals from the building, a process that is expected to take the entirety of the day.
This is not the first incident at this facility; Chief McDaniel noted that this is the third significant event in her seven years with the fire department, highlighting ongoing safety concerns.
For those displaced, several evacuation centers have been established, including JP Carr Gym and Wolverine Gym in Covington, providing temporary shelters.
Authorities have also closed multiple local roads including sections of Rockdale Industrial and Old Covington Highway. Drivers are being asked to avoid the area and use detours.
As the situation evolves, residents are encouraged to stay updated through official channels and adhere to all evacuation and safety directives.