A major industrial fire broke out on Monday afternoon in Tubize, Walloon Brabant, releasing toxic fumes and prompting the activation of the municipal emergency plan.
The fire started late Monday morning in a textile factory located on Rue de la Filature. Smoke from the blaze is visible from Brussels.
The fumes, which contain asbestos particles, have prompted authorities to advise residents of Tubize and nearby areas to remain indoors, keep windows and doors closed, and avoid unnecessary travel. The affected warehouse also contains acetylene cylinders, which pose additional risks.
Affected municipalities include Hal, Lembeek, Braine-le-Comte, Ittre, and Rebecq. SMS alerts via Be-Alert have been sent to inform the public.
Hospitals and care homes have been notified to implement safety measures for their residents.
All events and public festivities planned in Tubize have been suspended until further notice.
A crisis centre has been convening regularly to monitor the situation, assess potential risks, and estimate how long intervention efforts will be required.
"As far as the materials ablaze are concerned, the fire is under control. Operations are expected to continue throughout the night and possibly beyond," Tubize mayor Samuel D’Orazio informed Belga News Agency shortly before 15:30 on Monday.
The affected warehouse also contains acetylene cylinders, which pose additional risks.
