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Industrial Blaze Forces Full Evacuation
All 3,000 residents of Westrozebeke, Belgium, were ordered to evacuate their homes following a massive fire at the Horafrost frozen vegetable processing facility. The blaze erupted around 00:30 local time and rapidly spread through multiple warehouses containing industrial freezers.
Firefighting Challenges
Authorities report extreme difficulties containing the fire due to burning freezers releasing toxic fumes. The presence of flammable refrigerants and insulation materials common in industrial freezing facilities has intensified the blaze. Firefighting teams from across West Flanders are battling the inferno as smoke plumes visible for kilometers blanket the area.
Health Emergency
Mayor Francesco Vanderjeugd activated the provincial disaster plan, citing dangerous air quality from prolonged smoke exposure. While officials stated the smoke doesn't cause immediate illness, they warned of serious respiratory risks from extended inhalation. Evacuees are being sheltered at the local cultural center where medical teams are monitoring for smoke inhalation symptoms.
Industrial Fire Hazards
Frozen food plants present unique fire risks due to combustible insulation materials and pressurized cooling systems. When ignited, these facilities often produce cyanide gas and hydrogen chloride. The 2017 Grenfell Tower disaster demonstrated how modern building materials can accelerate fire spread - a concern now relevant to industrial settings.
Ongoing Response
Emergency services have established a 2km exclusion zone around the burning facility. Environmental agencies are monitoring air quality while investigators work to determine the fire's origin. Horafrost, a major European frozen vegetable supplier, has not commented on potential production impacts.
