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(ICIS) -- Logistical problems are
threatening US chemical plants along the swollen Mississippi river as water
levels continue to rise, sources said on Thursday. Already, the river along
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is at 43.1 feet (13.1m), placing it in a major flood
stage, according to the National Weather Service. During such a stage, shipping
and industrial activities will be "significantly affected", the National Weather
Service said. Unprotected low-lying areas will be flooded.
So far, the US Coast Guard has not increased the safety restrictions
imposed on Monday, which required ships to contact a traffic control centre at
Baton Rouge.
The river is expected to crest at Baton Rouge on 22 May at 47.5 feet,
breaking the record set in 1927, the weather service said.
To relieve pressure on the river, the US Army Corps of Engineers opened
the Bonnet Carre Spillway.
The Mississippi flooding has already created delays in the hydrochloric
acid (HCl) and caustic soda markets. A barge source said the disruptions along
the river were anticipated to last until mid-June.
mrcplast.com
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