A massive fire destroyed a waste recycling facility where over 700 tons of cardboard were on fire. The blaze broke out at a warehouse on Everite Road in Widnes, Cheshire, leading to the dispatch of multiple fire crews and the declaration of a major incident.
Witnesses described the sky over Liverpool turning black, accompanied by several explosions and a strong smell of chemicals, causing difficulty in breathing. Ash was observed falling from the sky onto Coronation Drive nearby.
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the fire was rapidly spreading, posing a risk of the building collapsing. Residents in the vicinity were advised to keep windows and doors closed while firefighters worked to contain the blaze.
Due to the significant size of the fire and smoke plume, authorities declared it a major incident. An official statement issued at 6 pm reiterated the advice to keep windows and doors shut during firefighting efforts.
Initial reports indicated that eight fire engines were combatting the fire involving a large quantity of waste cardboard in a single-story building. Concerns about the building’s structural integrity prompted firefighters to tackle the blaze from outside. No injuries were reported, and all individuals were safely evacuated.
As a result of the fire, road closures were implemented on Everite Road, Hale Road, and Ditchfield Road, with drivers advised to avoid the area. Fire engines from various locations were deployed to the scene to support the firefighting operations.
Cheshire Police responded to the incident, offering assistance with traffic management. No injuries were reported at the time of the statement, and road closures remained in effect. Residents and businesses in the vicinity were instructed to keep their doors and windows closed as a precaution.
