SOUTH HAVEN, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – State environmental officials with the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) will oversee the remaining cleanup after a massive fire at East Jordan Plastics in South Haven sent thick black smoke into the sky Friday.
The fire prompted a precautionary power shutdown across the city. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency monitored air quality and collected a sample of firefighting runoff to help the state determine how to handle the remaining water.
MORE NEWS: Iargo Springs to Close for Yearlong Renovation Beginning Monday
The fire was reported around 3:45 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25. Crews contained it by early evening but continued working to extinguish it. Firefighters used an estimated two million gallons of water. No injuries were reported, and all employees evacuated safely.
A plume of thick, black smoke could be seen from around 40 miles away after a large fire began at a plastics plant on the south side of South Haven.
The fire led to a citywide power outage. It’s not yet known when power will be restored. What we know: https://t.co/RXsDQNOGn5 pic.twitter.com/zlY7ZtNFuA
— WOOD TV8 (@WOODTV) September 25, 2026
East Jordan Plastics posted a statement on social media, saying the company is working with local authorities as the investigation into the cause of the fire continues. “We are grateful to the first responders who worked to protect our employees, our facility and the surrounding community,” the statement said. “South Haven is an important part of who we are, and we know this fire has disrupted the lives of our neighbors, local businesses and the broader community.” The company added, “Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected.”
The fire forced South Haven Public Schools to cancel its Friday night Homecoming parade, football game, and halftime festivities. The school played the game on Saturday at nearby Watervliet High School.
