Extraordinary moment explosion sends concrete blocks and chemical tank flying through the air near homes in Sydney’s west – with factory fire set to burn ALL DAY
A massive inferno has sparked chaos in Sydney’s west, as a volcano-like fireball swallowed a factory and burst 150m into the air, as debris rained down into neighbouring streets.
More than 200 firefighters rushed to Kurrajong Street in North St Marys shortly before 11pm on Saturday after an inferno engulfed the waste facility.
In scenes mirroring a volcanic eruption, fist-sized concrete blocks and a chemical tank exploded into the sky, which then spewed down onto the ground like lava.
Dozens of emergency crews from across the city raced to the scene, with two firefighters suffering minor injuries to their hands.
Fire and Rescue NSW described the blaze as one of the biggest seen in the region in years as it continued to burn on Sunday morning.
‘There’s been some amazing firefighting going on,’ Fire Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said.
‘We’ve had an incredibly large explosion, and so luckily all of our firefighters were able to be safe through that.’
Crews from more than 50 fire units battled the flames from all sides and established lines of defence from holes blown out of neighbouring buildings.
Projectiles burst out of the blaze like a firework display
More than 200 firefighters were deployed to the scene in North St Marys, which was one of the biggest western Sydney has seen in years
Five aerial platforms were deployed to battle the flames from above, as other fire trucks pumped water to douse the flames.
Hazardous materials crews and the Environment Protection Agency were also called to the scene, as authorities grappled with how to manage the chemicals consumed in the fire.
The explosion was so loud that it was heard several kilometres away in nearby Penrith.
It is not yet known what sparked the fire.
Police have launched an investigation into the blaze.
The fire is expected to burn for most of Sunday.
Residents in surrounding streets are urged to steer clear of the scene, remain indoors and close their windows, doors and vents to avoid harmful smoke.
‘NSW Fire and Rescue are attempting to extinguish the blaze which is expected to remain active for a considerable amount of time,’ NSW Police said.
A 200m exclusion zone has been set up around the blaze, which is expected to continue to burn for much of Sunday
‘A 200m exclusion zone has been established and motorists are urged to avoid the area.’
Anyone with information or dashcam/ phone footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
