Cannock fire: Firefighters warn over toxic contents at parcel warehouse as they battle huge blaze
No injuries were reported while firefighters tackled blaze
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A huge fire at an industrial estate in Staffordshire has caused businesses to be evacuated while residents have been urged to close their windows.
Huge plumes of black smoke are visible for nearly 20 miles as firefighters continue to tackle the blaze near the A460 Orbital Island in Cannock.
Emergency services were called at 6.15am after a fire started at Super Smart Services, a distribution warehouse that contains a variety of materials for delivery.
No injuries have been reported, and a spokesperson for Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service said no one was in the building at the time.
Dramatic footage shared on social media shows thick smoke billowing into the sky, with one local reporting hearing a series of “explosions” during the early hours.
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, the fire service said: “Fighters are asking all residents to close windows and doors due to smoke and all local businesses to evacuate.”
Please see below for what was our live coverage.
Firefighters expect road closures to continue for some time
In their latest statement, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “We can confirm that no-one has been reported injured and the building has been evacuated as firefighters continue to deal with an industrial fire in Cannock.
“Crews got a call just before 6.15am this morning (Thursday 9 May) to an address on Cley Road.
“Whilst we’re working hard to minimise the disruption on local businesses and residents in the area, we expect road closures to be in place in the area for some time.
“Luckily, the weather is playing into our favour and excess smoke is being carried high into the air and away from residents living nearby. We’re continuing to advise people who feel they are affected to close their windows and doors as a precaution whilst we continue to work at the scene.”
Firefighters warn of ‘dangerous’ situation around warehouse
Businesses have been told to evacuate and locals have been urged to keep their windows shut as the blaze continues, with firefighters warning of toxic contents within the parcel warehouse.
Glynn Luznjy from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service told ITV News: “It’s very dangerous in terms of the situation close to it. Our firefighters have taken defensive measures to make sure the fire is contained, it won’t spread any further”.
Latest statement from firefighters as fire continues
In their latest statement, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service describe the blaze as a “large and significant fire” and confirm that no one has been reported injured.
Weather lifting plume of smoke up high
Fire crews say they have been trying to reduce the effect of the large black plume of smoke over the area, but that weather conditions are lifting it high into the air.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Glynn Luznyj said: “If anybody feels they are affected by the smoke plume, please move out of it, please close doors and windows and stay safe.”
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