UPDATE: Partial ‘all clear’ given following toxic cloud

UPDATE: THE ‘all clear’ has been given for most people after a toxic cloud blanketed the skies over the town of Igualada in Catalonia following an explosion at a local chemical factory.

Emergency services have given a partial all clear for people to leave their homes, but the elderly, children and people with respiratory problems are still advised to stay indoors. The orange toxic cloud caused by the accident at the plant has now dissipated and the three people injured are all out of danger, according to the Catalan interior ministry.

– Original article –

Chemical plant explosion creates toxic cloud over Barcelona

AN EXPLOSION at a chemical plant in Igualada, Barcelona has resulted in a toxic cloud, forcing 65,360 residents in the area to remain inside their homes.

The incident occurred at the chemical company Simar at the industrial site Les Comes in Igualada, and Guardia Civil have instructed people in several Barcelona neighbourhoods to stay at home with their windows and doors closed, as the toxic cloud could harm skin and affect breathing.

According to the Fire Brigade, the explosion took place at around 9.45am today (February 12), during a loading and unloading operation involving two chemical products, nitric acid and ferric chloride.

The accident created an explosive reaction between the chemicals, resulting in a fire and pumping toxins into the air. Three people who were handling the materials received minor injuries.

The explosion has forced authorities to close the R6 train line between Pobla de Claramunt and Igualada. In addition, the exits 555 and 554 of the A-2 road in Igualada have also been closed and the access to industrial site Les Comes has been restricted.

The areas of Barcelona where residents have been told to remain indoors are: Igualada, Anoia, Jorba, Odena, Vilanova del Cami and Santa Margarida de Montbui.