A severe explosion and subsequent large-scale fire at an industrial park adjacent to a major international airport in Argentina has resulted in significant disruption, with at least 22 people requiring hospital treatment and numerous flights being cancelled.
Emergency Response to Major Blaze
The incident unfolded last night in an industrial zone to the south of the capital, Buenos Aires. Firefighters have been engaged in a fierce battle to control the flames, which took hold following a massive explosion. Gaston Granados, the Mayor of Ezeiza, where the event occurred, confirmed that the cause of the initial explosion remains unknown.
"We are trying to control [the fire] and extinguish it but have not been able to so far," Mayor Granados stated, emphasising the scale of the emergency. "The explosions and fire breaking out in the different factories are huge." Footage from the scene depicted thick, dark smoke billowing from the affected area.
Widespread Impact and Injuries
The director of a local hospital confirmed that their facility is currently treating 22 injured people who were rushed for medical care following the blast. The industrial area, which is located perilously close to Ministro Pistarini International Airport, commonly known as Ezeiza Airport, forced airport authorities to cancel a number of flights as a safety precaution.
According to local media reports, the fire and explosions impacted five separate factories. The complex houses facilities that produce a range of goods, including tyres and chemical products, which likely contributed to the intensity of the blaze.
Long and Complex Firefighting Operation
Fabian Garcia, the Civil Defence Director for Buenos Aires Province, described the situation as a "complex fire" and warned that "it will be a long fire," indicating that emergency services face a protracted operation to fully extinguish the flames. The combination of hazardous materials and the scale of the inferno presents a serious challenge for the responders on the ground.
As investigations prepare to begin, the primary focus for authorities remains on fully containing the fire and ensuring the safety of the surrounding area, including the critical airport infrastructure.
