Chemical plant explosion

A series of explosions rock DrillChem, an oil field chemical supply company in Conroe, about 40 miles north of Houston, setting off a fire that has a broad, dense column of thick, black smoke. DrillChem says no one was in the plant at the time. Authorities says no one was injured in the explosions or blaze. Firefighters take about two hours to bring the fire under control. Residents up to 2 miles from the fire site are told to remain indoors. By nightfall, the alert is reduced to a half-mile radius before being lifted completely about 7:30 p.m. DrillChem CEO:

The facility was empty at the time of the fire and we are thankful that no injuries have been reported. We are working closely with local authorities to determine the cause of the fire and assess the extent of the damage.