Fire in the chlorine warehouse Leaves 5 municipalities in Catalonia confined
A dangerous toxic cloud rose on Saturday morning in the beach area of Vilanova I La Geltrú, 51 km north of Tarragona, Catalonia, caused by a Fire in a chemical factory for swimming pools. The fire threw 02h20 Saturday, May 10, In CLIM Waterpool Company, which manufactures swimming pool cleaning products.
The affected building, located in Rambla dels Països Catalans number 18 in Vilanova I the Geltrú, stored about 70 tons of chlorineA highly toxic chemist when burning.
Civil Protection of Catalonia immediately activated the alert of his PLASEQCAT Chemical Plan and sent messages to the mobile phones of residents in the affected areas.
Affected municipalities, confinement and security measures
Locations under confinement orders include:
- Vilanova I La Geltrú (Barcelona).
- Sant Pere de Ribes (Barcelona)
- Bucket (Barcelona)
- Cunit (Tarragona)
- Calafell (Tarragona)
- The center of Rocky
The authorities gave residents to remain At home, keep its doors and windows closed and do not use airs that can filter contaminated outer air.
Current fire and emergency response situation
The Fire of Genealitat de Catalunya reported that the fire is in the phase of stabilization and that managed to avoid their propagation to neighboring industrial buildings. Until now, The toxic cloud did not cause injuriesAccording to civil protection sources, which indicate that the wind direction is promoting the cloud mainly to the sea, reducing the risk of densely populated areas.
Impact on mobility and services
To facilitate the work of emergency equipment, traffic closures were implemented, including those highlighted. The trains of the South R2 line and the regional lines That crossed the affected municipalities suspended the service in these areas.
The municipality of Vilanova and the Geltrú warned, through social networks, that the activities scheduled for Saturday were canceled.
Emergency trip
Sixty firefighters With twenty lands, the teams are working in the area. Specialized equipment in chemical risks They are constantly evaluating the situation.
EITHER Medical Emergency System (SIN) He sent three units that remain on alert. The Mossos d’Amequadra and the Local Police Control access and guarantee compliance with confinement orders.
Coordination between authorities
The Spanish Civil Protection, of its CECAT coordination center, is in Permanent communication with municipal councils of all affected municipalities and com respective Local Police to coordinate the response to this emergency.
Health authorities recommend that all people present symptoms such as eye irritation, respiratory difficulties or discomfort Contact emergency services immediately. The authorities underline the importance of strictly following the official recommendations. It is essential to stay indoors until the confinement order is raised.
