Updated | Fire at Imriehel factory, CPD warns to keep windows closed

Updated at 15:42

The Civil Protection Department says firefighters "are leading an effort to put out the fire at the detergents factory. The situation has somewhat improved as the fire is being brought under control."

CPD says the advise to keep windows closed in the areas of Imriehel,  Hamrun, Santa Venera, Qormi, Balzan is still effective.

Members of the Civil Protection Department are on site to control the fire. CPD Director Patrick Murgo said from the initial information gathered, it is likely that the fire erupted from chemicals.

In fact, several explosions have been reported.

Whilst members of the CPD have been evacuating the workers, there is no information of injured persons.

Murgo said that households in the vicinity of Imriehel, including Qormi and Santa Venera should leave their windows closed.

“The fumes might be toxic,” Murgo warned.

Members of the CPD are warning people to keep away from the factory because of the exploding chemicals. Police also advised drivers to avoid passing through Triq l-Industrija and Triq il-Birerija, as the roads are closed to traffic. 

Police said an ambulance is on site.