A fire broke out at a chemical factory in northeastern Spain on 10 May, forcing several towns into lockdown after a toxic cloud formed and began spreading away from the plant. Spanish emergency services issued health warnings to around 150,000 people while firefighters tackled the blaze at the swimming pool chemicals factory in Vilanova i la Geltrú, around 25 miles (40km) southwest of Barcelona in Catalonia.
Emergency services were called to the chemicals factory, operated by Clim Waterpool, at around 02:20 local time. The company manufactures chemicals and cleaning products for swimming pools. Officials said that around 70 tonnes of chlorine were stored at the factory.
Firefighters mobilised around 60 vehicles to tackle the fire and were able to confine the blaze to the affected building and prevent it from spreading to surrounding buildings. Medical officials said that four people were treated for breathing problems at the site but are expected to make full recoveries.
In the evening of 10 May, officials confirmed that the fire had been successfully contained, however due to the large quantities of chlorine involved, a toxic cloud had formed in the area and locals were warned to take precautions despite the lockdowns being lifted. People with health conditions, children, and older people were advised to remain indoors while the cloud dispersed.
Fortunately, officials said that weather conditions meant the majority of the toxic cloud was blown out to sea and away from heavily populated areas.
