Chemical Explosion Triggers Massive Factory Fire in Derrimut, Toxic Smoke Warning Issued

Jul 10, 2024, 07:02 AM

A large chemical explosion triggered a massive factory fire in Melbourne's west, specifically in Derrimut, shortly before midday on Wednesday. The explosion resulted in toxic smoke spreading across the suburb, prompting authorities to issue warnings for residents to stay indoors and avoid the area. Emergency crews, including more than 180 firefighters, have been deployed to the scene to control the blaze, which is expected to take days to fully extinguish. Police are currently searching for a man seen near a burnt-out white cab that fled the scene of the fire. Streets are being evacuated as the fire continues to rage, and residents have been advised not to return home due to the ongoing threat from the toxic smoke. The factory burns with subsequent blasts reported hours after the initial explosion.