An evacuation was originally ordered for about five miles around the plant, due to fears of a larger explosion. Officials later reduced the evacuation zone down to just a mile around the plant.
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According to the Austin County Sheriff, several explosions took place during the morning. There were no reported injuries.
Residents reported hearing a series of blasts that sounded like grenades. Thick black smoke continues to fill the sky over the plant, and continued explosions were heard throughout the morning.
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As of the evening time, officials believed the worst is over. Despite the evacuation order being lifted, a stretch of Highway 159 remained closed between the Brazos River and Bellville.
Evacuations after gas plant explosion