YAZOO COUNTY, Miss. (WJTV) – A chemical explosion at the CF Industries plant in Yazoo County sent shockwaves through the community on November 5, 2025.
The explosion released a cloud of orange smoke and forced evacuations. Crews worked through the night to contain the leak and protect nearby residents.
“We received numerous reports of some type of explosion and a large plume cloud or a large cloud of orange smoke in the area. Our first responders immediately responded to the scene,” said Jack Willingham, Yazoo County Emergency Management director.
Businesses were closed on Wednesday, roads were blocked and an American Red Cross center opened at Yazoo County High School. Officials said the leak was contained within about eight hours.
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Multiple agencies have responded to a chemical leak at a Yazoo County plant. (Courtesy: Kevin James) -
Multiple agencies have responded to a chemical leak at a Yazoo County plant. (Courtesy: Richard Ross) -
This photo provided by Andre Robinson shows a plume of smoke rising after an explosion at the CF Industries plant Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025, in Yazoo City, Miss. (Andre Robinson via AP) -
This photo provided by Andre Robinson shows a plume of smoke rising after an explosion at the CF Industries plant Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025, in Yazoo City, Miss. (Andre Robinson via AP)
“I heard a big boom sound, and I thought it was the tree, and it fell on the house. So, we came running outside, but we didn’t see anything. And that’s when I got a phone call that it was an explosion at the chemical plant,” said Tammy Hudson, who lives in Yazoo County.
The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) continues air monitoring overnight. Roads reopened early Thursday morning.
No injuries were reported. The investigation into the cause of the explosion is underway.