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Catalonia Chemical Fire Contained but Full Extinguishment to Take Days

A toxic chlorine blaze in Vilanova i la Geltrú prompted mass confinement and emergency measures, with authorities now focused on monitoring and cleanup efforts.

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Overview

  • A fire at a chlorine-rich pool-products warehouse in Vilanova i la Geltrú triggered the PLASEQCAT chemical emergency plan, confining over 150,000 residents across five municipalities for seven hours.
  • The toxic chlorine cloud has dissipated, and confinement orders have been lifted, though vulnerable groups were advised to take precautions until late Saturday evening.
  • Emergency teams, including Bombers de la Generalitat, continue to monitor emissions and safely remove chemical residues, with full extinguishment expected to take several more days.
  • The fire, which began early Saturday morning, was stabilized by late Saturday after firefighters removed and secured hazardous materials from the site.
  • Authorities are reviewing the mobile alert system used to notify residents, following reports of uneven reception during the emergency.