A fire that has been raging for days at a recycling plant in the US state of Indiana poses an increasing threat to surrounding cities and their inhabitants. Authorities have now ordered an evacuation, with more than 2,000 people affected. The fire is still not under control.
“The smoke is absolutely toxic. People need to get in touch with it,” Fire Chief Stephen Jones said at a news conference Tuesday. All Richmond residents outside the evacuation zone have been instructed to stay indoors, close all doors and windows, and turn off ventilation systems. Pets are also not allowed outside if possible.
The industrial facility, which was ignited by a semi truck that caught fire, is expected to burn for days and the dangerous smoke could spread to the neighboring state of Ohio.
Is the next environmental disaster just around the corner?
A similarly dangerous situation occurred there two months ago when a freight train loaded with highly toxic chemicals derailed. After that, the cars also burned for days and toxic substances were released into the air, water and soil. After the residents of eastern Palestine returned, they complained of respiratory and skin irritation, dizziness, nausea and headaches.
Numerous dead fish and birds were also discovered. The clean-up and cleaning work is now underway. Contaminated soil is removed and disposed of. However, the fear of an environmental catastrophe has remained.
In the current case in Richmond, the environmental agency EPA reassured: so far no elevated levels of pollutants have been found in the air. However, for safety reasons, no measurements could be taken in the evacuation zone.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
