Lightning strikes Chalmette refinery

Shell oil looking to sell Convent refinery, salt dome
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Residents of New Orleans and St. Bernard Parish reported an odor like burning tires or paint thinner after St. Bernard Parish authhorities reported lightning striking Chalmette Refinery.

The Times-Picayune | New Orleans Advocate reports there was a power outage and flaring at the plant around 4:00 p.m. They report refinery officials say everyone on site is safe and accounted for, and the refinery only released "nuisance odors" that are not harmful.

Video posted to social media showed plumes of smoke emanating from the refinery's stacks.

(Video contains profane language)