At approximately 2230 hours this evening (Florida time), a major explosion at the Blue Rhino propane plant occurred with multiple fatalities and several serious injuries.  The plant is located near Highways 448 and 561 in Lady Lake, Florida not far from the Orlando area.

Residents as far away as 8 miles could hear the explosion.

Currently, on scene are Air 22, Engines 13, 281, 41, 35, MCI 82, Tanker 77, Chiefs 28, 22 and EMS 1.  All 3 Training Officers have been requested to respond.

Some news outlets are reporting 15 people are currently missing.

They are currently evacuating residents in a one-mile radius.

News helicopters had to go higher in elevation because they could feel the intense heat from the fire.

Two people have been sent to area hospitals with serious burns.

Fire has been knocked down with exposures protected.

As more information is received, we’ll update you all.

 

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