On November 30, the New South Wales Fire and Rescue Force (FRNSW) announced that more than 200 firefighters had controlled a major fire that broke out overnight at a waste treatment plant in North St Marys, western Sydney (Australia).
The fire broke out before 11pm on November 29 (local time) in the Kurrajong area. The fire broke out like a giant hot air balloon, with a fireball up to 150m high, then quickly spread to neighboring buildings.
Local media reported that the pressure from the blast caused affected buildings to collapse.
A large tank of chemicals was blown into the air, causing large pieces of concrete to fall around. Dozens of BRNSW firefighters were reportedly hit by debris during the blast.
Two firefighters suffered minor injuries to their hands during the highest emergency.
The fire has now been brought under control, but is expected to remain quiet throughout November 30.
More than 50 firefighters were present at the scene, deploying forces from all sides, setting up solid defenses from holes in neighboring buildings in one of the largest fires on record in western Sydney in years.
Meanwhile, the Hazing Materials Processing Force (HAZMAT) was present at the scene to respond to the amount of chemicals on fire at the scene.
The Environmental Protection Agency, police and local emergency forces have also been deployed.
It is not yet clear what caused the fire and whether the incident caused casualties.
Local people are advised to stay away from the area, and close windows, doors and ventilation systems to avoid toxic smoke.
