A dangerous toxic cloud caused by a fire on Spain’s Catalan coastline forced multiple towns into lockdown, but the restrictions have since been lifted.
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A dangerous toxic cloud formed following a fire at a swimming pool chemicals factory in Vilanova i la Geltrú has caused six towns in Catalonia to be placed under lockdown on Saturday, according to Spanish authorities.
The blaze erupted at around 2:20 am on Saturday at Clim Waterpool, a company specialising in cleaning products for swimming pools.
The affected site, located at 18 Rambla dels Països Catalans in Vilanova i la Geltrú, contained approximately 70 tonnes of chlorine, a highly toxic substance when it burns.
Catalonia's Civil Protection activated its chemical risk plan, PLASEQCAT, and sent emergency alerts to residents' mobile phones in the affected areas.
Immediate response and containment orders
Lockdown orders were lifted by Saturday afternoon. However, people from vulnerable groups were still advised to stay inside for the moment.
The towns affected were Vilanova i la Geltrú (Barcelona), Sant Pere de Ribes (Barcelona), Cubelles (Barcelona), Cunit (Tarragona), Calafell (Tarragona) and the centre of Roquetes.
Authorities had instructed residents to stay indoors, keep doors and windows closed, and not to use air-conditioning devices that can filter contaminated outdoor air.
Firefighters from Catalonia report that the blaze is now in the stabilisation phase, with efforts successfully preventing its spread to nearby industrial buildings.
Civil Protection has confirmed that no injuries were reported on Saturday, as the wind directed the toxic cloud towards the sea, minimising the threat to densely populated areas.
Vilanova i la Geltrú town council warned on its social media that activities at the "La Fira Conte Va" festival, outdoor sports activities, libraries, the central market and the fish market have been cancelled.
Sixty firefighters were deployed to the area with teams specialised in chemical risks constantly assessing the situation.
The Medical Emergency System (SEM) has sent three units that remain on alert. Local Police are ensuring civilians comply with confinement orders.
Civil Protection, operating from its coordination centre (CECAT), has been in continuous contact with town councils and local police of all affected municipalities to ensure a coordinated response.
Health authorities have advised anyone experiencing symptoms such as eye irritation, breathing difficulties, or general discomfort to seek immediate medical assistance.