An explosion at Sound Resource Solutions, a chemical plant in Shepherd, Texas, has prompted authorities to initially issue a 5-mile shelter-in-place order, which has now been reduced to a 1-mile radius, according to the San Jacinto County Office of Emergency Management.

The blast occurred at around 8:17 a.m. along U.S. Highway 59, causing concern for the safety of residents in the vicinity of the plant, located about 60 miles northeast of Houston.

Reports indicate that one person sustained first-degree burns to the face and second-degree and third-degree burns to the arms. The injured individual is currently receiving treatment at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center, as reported by FOX26 Houston, citing a source.

Following a thorough assessment of the scene, officials determined it was safe to downsize the shelter-in-place order. The San Jacinto County Office of Emergency Management subsequently reduced the radius to 1 mile.

In addition to the shelter-in-place order, a private school on FM 1127 near the explosion site had to be evacuated for the safety of its students and staff, according to emergency officials.

The cause of the explosion remains unclear, and it is also unknown what type of chemical was involved in the incident. Sound Resource Solutions president, Geoff Harfield, described the fire as a "forklift incident," though further details have not been provided.

Polk County Emergency Management noted that the plume resulting from the explosion appears to be heading towards the Livingston area. As a precautionary measure, residents along U.S. Highway 59 from Goodrich to Leggett have been advised to shelter in place and turn off their HVAC systems.

Authorities have shut down U.S. Highway 59 from FM 1988 to Exit 451B as emergency responders continue to address the aftermath of the explosion. The Texas Department of Transportation has urged motorists to seek alternative routes until further notice.

As the investigation into the cause of the explosion and the extent of the chemical release continues, residents and local businesses are urged to remain vigilant and follow instructions from authorities regarding their safety.

The effects of the chemical in the air are currently unknown, and residents are advised to stay informed through official updates from local emergency agencies.