Hazmat Warning Issued as Factory Fire Engulfs Perth Suburb in Toxic Smoke

A factory fire has erupted in the southern region of Kwinana, just south of Perth, causing the release of thick, black smoke into the air. The incident occurred around 1:30pm AWST (4:30pm AEDT) at a warehouse situated on Port Road. The plumes of potentially hazardous smoke have quickly spread, affecting multiple residential areas including Kwinana Beach, Medina, Orelia, Parmelia, Bertram, Wellard, Leda, Kwinana Town Centre, and Rockingham.

Authorities have promptly issued a hazmat warning for the affected areas, urging residents to stay indoors and keep their doors and windows shut. This advisory is particularly critical considering the toxic nature of the industrial fire smoke. Firefighters have been deployed to the scene to combat the ongoing blaze.

The impacted regions collectively house approximately 40,000 people who now find themselves at risk due to the spreading smoke. The dire situation has prompted authorities to advise residents to avoid exposure to the smoke or fumes by staying indoors, with air conditioners turned off. The wind is currently blowing the smoke towards the suburban areas, exacerbating the impact of the incident.

It is worth noting that the factory fire comes amidst soaring temperatures in Perth, with the nearby Jandakot weather station recording a peak temperature of 42.6 degrees. Earlier today, another bushfire threatened homes in the southern suburbs, specifically in Spearwood, where flames encroached upon residential areas. Aerial footage shows the extent of the destruction caused by the fire in the nearby bushland.