Extraordinary moment explosion sends concrete blocks and chemical tank flying through the air near homes in Sydney’s west – with factory fire set to burn ALL DAY
- A fire broke out at a factory in Sydney’s west
- A massive fireball exploded, sending flames and debris into the sky
A massive inferno has caused chaos in western Sydney as a volcano-like fireball engulfed a factory and shot 150 meters into the air, showering debris onto neighboring streets.
More than 200 firefighters descended on Kurrajong Street in North St Marys just before 11pm on Saturday after turning the waste facility into an inferno.
In scenes mirroring a volcanic eruption, fist-sized concrete blocks and a chemical tank exploded into the sky and then sprayed the ground like lava.
Two firefighters suffered minor injuries to their hands as dozens of emergency crews from across the city rushed to the scene.
Fire and Rescue NSW described the blaze as one of the largest in the region in recent years, and it continued into Sunday morning.
‘An incredible firefight is underway,’ Fire Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said.
‘We had an incredibly large explosion and thankfully all our firefighters made it out safely.’
Teams of more than 50 fire departments fought the flames from all sides and created defense lines through holes opened in neighboring buildings.
Bullets shot out from the fire like a fireworks display
More than 200 firefighters were sent to the scene in North St Marys, one of the biggest Western Sydney has seen in years.
A 200-meter exclusion zone has been created around the fire, which is expected to continue burning throughout Sunday.
Five aerial platforms were deployed to combat the flames from above, while other fire trucks pumped water to extinguish the flames.
As authorities grappled with how to manage the chemicals consumed in the fire, hazardous materials teams and the Environmental Protection Agency were also called to the scene.
It is not yet known what caused the fire.
The police launched an investigation into the incident.
While the fire is expected to burn through most of Sunday, residents were urged to stay away from the scene and close their windows, doors and vents to avoid harmful smoke.
‘NSW Fire and Rescue are working to extinguish the fire, which is expected to remain active for an extended period,’ NSW Police said.
‘A 200 meter exclusion zone has been established and drivers are asked to avoid the area.’
Anyone with information or dash cam/cell phone footage is asked to contact Crime Stoppers.
