A pall of smoke descended upon Wolverhampton this morning, triggered by a massive fire erupting at a factory on Sunbeam Street. Residents reported a series of explosions before flames engulfed the building, sending plumes visible for miles.
The air itself became a concern, with reports surfacing of a distinct smell and even a taste accompanying the drifting smoke. Witnesses described a “major toxic incident,” prompting urgent warnings for people to seek shelter.
Firefighters are battling the blaze with overwhelming force, deploying a significant response team of 17 engines, specialized vehicles, and even a drone unit to assess the rapidly evolving situation. The fire has been raging since approximately 7:30 am.
Local officials are urging residents and workers in the vicinity to immediately close windows and doors as a precautionary measure against potential airborne contaminants. Avoiding the area entirely is strongly advised due to the ongoing emergency.
Paul Birch, a local business owner with an office nearby, characterized the event as a serious threat, emphasizing the potential for toxic fumes to spread. He stressed the importance of heeding the advice to remain indoors.
The factory, a mixed-use facility, is currently being consumed by flames, presenting a complex challenge for the responding fire crews. The scale of the fire suggests a prolonged and intensive effort to bring it under control.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, prioritizing the safety of the community and working to contain the spread of the smoke and potential hazards. The cause of the initial explosions and fire remains under investigation.
