A significant industrial fire, declared a 'major toxic incident', has sent towering plumes of thick black smoke over Wolverhampton this morning, prompting a large-scale emergency response.
Scene of Chaos and Rapid Response
The blaze broke out at a factory on Sunbeam Street, near the junction with Upper Villiers Street in the Blakenhall area, with the first reports coming in shortly after 7.20am on Wednesday, 14 January. West Midlands Fire Service mobilised immediately, with the first crew arriving at the scene within just three minutes of being alerted.
More than 40 firefighters from stations across the region, including Bilston, Fallings Park, Tipton, Willenhall, Haden Cross, Wednesbury, Dudley and Walsall, are currently battling the fierce flames. Crews wearing breathing apparatus are using hose reel jets to tackle the fire, which is understood to have spread to nearby buildings.
Public Health Warning Issued
Due to the toxic nature of the smoke, authorities have issued urgent advice to the public. Residents and workers in the local area have been instructed to close all doors and windows and stay indoors to avoid exposure to the fumes.
The scale of the incident is dramatic, with witnesses reporting visible explosions and a smoke column so large it could be seen from approximately six miles away. Former Labour councillor Paul Birch described the situation to local media as a "major toxic incident," a designation confirmed by the emergency services.
Major Disruption and Ongoing Operations
The fire has caused significant disruption to the area. Drivers are being strongly advised to avoid Sunbeam Street and the surrounding vicinity while emergency services work to bring the blaze under control. A statement from West Midlands Fire Service emphasised the ongoing nature of the operation, stating: "This is a live incident. Please avoid the area whilst we work at the scene as there is significant disruption."
The cause of the fire is not yet known, and investigations will begin once the flames are fully extinguished. The fire service continues to work at the scene, and further updates are expected throughout the day.
