**Chemical Fire and Plume Prompt Evacuations and Sheltering in Conyers, Georgia**

Residents east of Atlanta faced emergency evacuations and shelter-in-place orders on Sunday due to a chemical-related incident at a BioLab plant in Conyers, Georgia. A sprinkler malfunction around 5 a.m. at the facility led to an unintended reaction between water and a water-reactive chemical, creating a hazardous plume, according to Rockdale County Fire Chief Marian McDaniel.

The situation grew more severe as a small roof fire, initially contained in the morning, reignited in the afternoon. Sheriff Eric Levett addressed the public via a video on Facebook, showing gray smoke rising from the site and urging residents to stay clear of the area while officials worked to manage the blaze.

In response to the chemical plume, the northern part of Rockdale County received evacuation orders, while other residents were advised to remain indoors, keeping windows and doors shut. Christine Nesbitt, a spokesperson for the sheriff's office, was unable to provide a concrete number of those affected by the evacuation.

To ensure public safety, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division were dispatched to the scene. Sharon Webb, the county's Emergency Management Director, stated that these agencies are actively monitoring air quality to determine the composition of the chemical plume.

Efforts are now focused on removing the reactive chemical from the building and isolating it from any water sources. Chief McDaniel indicated that after containment is achieved, the situation will be reassessed to inform residents when it is safe to return.