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Emergency crews responding to massive explosion at New Orleans-area oil refinery: sheriff
By Alexandra Koch
Published May 08, 2026
Emergency crews are responding to a New Orleans refinery after a large explosion rocked the Chalmette community.
Video showed a large plume of smoke at Chalmette Refining, which produces roughly 189,000 barrels of crude oil per day.
It is unclear if there were any injuries or fatalities.
Officials confirmed a fire on Friday at Chalmette Refining near New Orleans, Louisiana. (WVUE)
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St. Bernard Parish Sheriff's Office confirmed there was a fire at the refinery, noting a number of road closures while emergency responders work at the scene.
"Motorists are asked to avoid the area and seek alternate routes until further notice," the agency wrote in a Facebook post. "Please use caution and allow first responders space to safely perform their duties."
Chalmette Refining did not immediately respond to inquiries from Fox News Digital.
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Chalmette, Louisiana, is located about five miles east of downtown New Orleans, along the Mississippi River.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
https://www.foxnews.com/us/emergency-crews-responding-massive-explosion-new-orleans-area-oil-refinery-sheriff