Emergency crews responding to massive explosion at New Orleans-area oil refinery: sheriff

Emergency crews are responding to a New Orleans refinery after a large explosion Friday afternoon rocked the Chalmette community.

Video showed a large plume of smoke at Chalmette Refining, which processes roughly 189,000 barrels of crude oil per day.

It is unclear if there were any injuries or fatalities.

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St. Bernard Parish Sheriff's Office confirmed there was a fire at the refinery, noting a number of road closures while emergency responders work at the scene.

"Motorists are asked to avoid the area and seek alternate routes until further notice," the agency wrote in a Facebook post. "Please use caution and allow first responders space to safely perform their duties."

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry released a statement on X noting he has been in direct contact with local officials and law enforcement on the ground.

"We are actively monitoring developments and working closely with parish leaders and first responders to ensure public safety and provide any assistance needed," Landry wrote in the post.

Chalmette Refining did not immediately respond to inquiries from Fox News Digital.

Chalmette, Louisiana, is located about five miles east of downtown New Orleans, along the Mississippi River.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.