Lightning Sparks Massive Oil Tank Fire in Louisiana as Storms, Tornadoes Slam Region

A dramatic fire broke out Monday morning in Livonia after a lightning strike likely ignited two oil tanks during a powerful round of severe weather that swept across South Louisiana.

UPDATE:

There have been injuries reported near the Livonia oil tank fire due to a reported accident.

According to WBRZ, the flames erupted on Reliable Lane, just off U.S. 190, where officials say a lightning bolt likely struck one tank, quickly spreading fire to a second. The Pointe Coupee Parish Sheriff's Office confirmed the fire was weather-related, with Sheriff Rene' Thibodaux noting that multiple fire crews responded swiftly to the scene.

Firefighters spent hours controlling the blaze and cooling nearby tanks to prevent explosions. Traffic on U.S. 190 was briefly stopped to give emergency crews access to water sources.

The fire was extinguished by 10:44 a.m., approximately three hours after it started. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

The fiery scene was just one of many weather-related emergencies across South Louisiana on Monday as thunderstorms rocked the region with lightning, high winds, heavy rain, and multiple confirmed tornadoes. Thousands were left without power, and several school districts reported closures or delays.

In Springfield, a video that quickly went viral showed a school bus driver pulled over on the side of the road as violent winds shook the vehicle during a tornado warning. Though it’s unclear if a tornado directly hit the area at that moment, multiple touchdowns were confirmed throughout the state, including in neighboring Livingston and Tangipahoa Parishes.

Officials continue to assess damage across the region, and residents are urged to remain cautious as cleanup efforts continue.