Fire Crews Monitor Valdosta Chemical Plant Blast

Authorities in south Georgia say fire crews were continuing to monitor the scene of a chemical explosion that rocked an industrial complex, injuring three people.

Valdosta city officials said in a statement that firefighters remained at the scene Wednesday night until an investigation could begin Thursday.

Officials said several agencies are evaluating the safety of the area. They include the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; the Georgia Environmental Protection Division; and the Lowndes County Emergency Management Agency Director.

Valdosta fire officials say more than 40 firefighters responded to the Wednesday afternoon blaze at Perma-Fix of South Georgia. Police say the fire and explosions appeared to be coming from a facility that processes hazardous and non-hazardous waste materials.

Valdosta Police Chief Brian Childress said the three people were severely burned, The Valdosta Daily Times reported. Their conditions were not available.

The American Red Cross was providing assistance to people in the area of the fire, WALB-TV reported. Perma-Fix of South Georgia is a waste treatment facility that processes and disposes of hazardous and non-hazardous waste liquid, solids and sludges, the Albany television station reported.