Chemical Explosion Sparks Massive Factory Fire in Melbourne’s West

A chemical explosion at a factory in Melbourne‘s west has ignited a significant fire, leading to a large-scale emergency response. The incident, which occurred on Swann Drive in Derrimut, prompted over 30 fire trucks to rush to the scene, with Fire Rescue Victoria spearheading the efforts to contain the blaze.

Initially reported at 11:20 am, the explosion and resulting fire sent thick black smoke billowing into the sky, visible from several suburbs in the vicinity. Local residents were advised to keep their windows closed as emergency crews battled the flames using specialized equipment and aerial resources.

Witnesses described a dramatic scene, with charred debris flying through the air from the intense fire, including a barrel that landed several hundred meters away from the factory. Concerns over toxic smoke prompted a community warning for nearby areas such as Albion, Braybrook, Brooklyn, and Laverton North, among others.

One Ravenhall worker, Trent Chamberlain, recounted the harrowing sight from his office, observing the ongoing explosions and billowing smoke from a distance. Despite the efforts of firefighters and paramedics on site since 11:15 am, no injuries had been reported, and all individuals within the factory were safely evacuated.

As a precautionary measure, Swann Drive was closed to traffic, and sections of the Western Freeway outbound lanes were shut down between the M80 Ring Road and Robinsons Road. Motorists were advised to use alternative routes such as Ballarat Road to bypass the closures and to exercise caution at intersections affected by power outages.

The Department of Transplant and Planning issued guidance to the community, urging people to avoid the area to facilitate emergency operations, stressing the importance of not obstructing high-speed roads to observe the unfolding events. The situation remains under constant assessment as emergency services work tirelessly to bring the situation under control.