Large Flame Near Comeaux High in Lafayette Ignites Concerns

(Lafayette, Louisiana) - If you've been on the southside of Lafayette in recent days, you may have heard a strange sound and seen a large flame in the air.

Many in recent days have been asking on social media what was with the large flame coming from the area where Comeaux High is in Lafayette.

Well, knowing that many may be concerned, KATC Chief Meteorologist Rob Perillo posted a video from the plant where the flame is coming from, as he lives nearby.

According to Rob's Facebook post, the flame that has caught the attention of many in South Lafayette is coming from the South Pipeline facility on Verot School Road and Digby Ave.

The reason for the flame is called gas flaring. Many plants across the state and country do this; it is not uncommon, and it is planned and controlled.

So, if you see this flame coming from the plant, no one is in danger, and this planned release does not pose a threat to any residents or businesses nearby in Lafayette.

Why Plants Perform Gas Flaring

Plants use it primarily to dispose of waste gas or relieve pressure in pipelines to prevent explosions. When performed at plants, gas flaring can release methane, nitrogen oxides, and black carbon (soot), affecting local air quality.

World Bank states, "Gas flaring is the burning of the natural gas associated with oil extraction. The practice has persisted from the beginning of oil production over 160 years ago."

Here's a look at the plant releasing excess gas in Lafayette. You may want to turn the volume up for this one to better understand how loud it can be.

Again, many on social media have been asking what you will see here, so you may want to share this link with others so they are aware of what has been happening in this part of the city.