Crews were called to an asphalt plant in northern Alabama on Thursday after a fire and explosion were reported at the facility.

John S. Forrester, former Managing Editor

July 30, 2020

1 Min Read
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Several fire and emergency response crews were dispatched to the Reed Contracting asphalt plant in Huntsville, AL on Thursday morning after an explosion and fire were reported at the facility.

The fire started after 5 am. News organizations reporting on the incident offered varying details on circumstances of the blast and fire.

Monrovia Fire-Rescue Public Information Officer Capt. Blake Mathis said in coverage by television news station WHNT that an asphalt silo caught fire during the incident. A Huntsville Fire official told news broadcaster WAFF that the explosion was caused by heat buildup from diesel fuel used by workers to clean chains. Another news station, WAAY, said the blaze ignited in a conveyor belt used for asphalt loading.

The flames were extinguished by about 7:30 am, WAAY’s report said. No injuries were logged.

Reed Contracting is a civil contractor based that also produces concrete, asphalt, and aggregate for use in its own projects and by local customers, according to information on its website. The company currently operates five asphalt plants in in northern Alabama.

About the Author(s)

John S. Forrester

former Managing Editor, Powder & Bulk Solids

John S. Forrester is the former managing editor of Powder & Bulk Solids.

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