### Chemical Plant Fire Forces Widespread Evacuations in Conyers

On Sunday, local authorities were forced to evacuate residents and shut down multiple roads, including a stretch of I-20, after a fire reignited at the BioLab facility in Conyers, Georgia. This marks the third fire-related incident at the facility in seven years.

The fire, which was initially contained early Sunday morning, reignited later in the day. The massive plume of smoke was reportedly visible from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, situated approximately 30 miles away. In a statement on Facebook, the Rockdale County Sheriff's Office advised residents to stay indoors and close their windows to avoid potential hazards.

Rockdale County fire Chief Marian McDaniel explained during a press conference on Sunday that the fire began around 5 a.m. It was triggered by a malfunctioning sprinkler head that interacted with water-reactive chemicals and wiring at the plant. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the employees who were inside the facility at the time. Efforts are underway to remove the volatile materials from the water source, and the fire has been mainly contained to the roof.

Despite the containment, the fire reignited later on Sunday. Sheriff Eric Levett emphasized the need for residents to avoid the affected area. I-20 between Salem Road and Turner Hill Road, along with all exits within Rockdale County, have been closed to traffic. Increased traffic congestion was noted in Conyers as drivers navigated the closed routes, with certain businesses also affected. A Kroger store on Hwy 138 was closed, and a QuikTrip on Klondike Road operated with pay-at-the-pump only.

Emergency response measures have been bolstered, with multiple agencies, including the Georgia State Patrol and Georgia Department of Public Safety, assisting with traffic control. Evacuation zones have been established for a large portion of Conyers. Shelters have been set up at General Ray Davis Middle School, Bert Adams Boy Scout Camp, and Wolverine Gym to accommodate displaced residents. Previously listed evacuation sites that fall within the danger zone have been updated.

This incident is the third of its kind since 2021, according to McDaniel, who noted that when water mixes with certain chemicals at the plant, a hazardous reaction occurs. The timeline for when residents can safely return home remains uncertain as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducts tests to determine the content and severity of the smoke plume.

BioLab representatives confirmed in a statement that they are working with local authorities to manage the situation, stressing the priority of community safety. Meanwhile, county officials continue to provide updates through social media channels and local hospitals will be issuing public service announcements regarding steps residents should take if affected by the incident.