Belgium: Battery fire and toxic smoke in Drogenbos November 11

Event

A battery fire at the Engie Electrabel plant in Drogenbos on Saturday, November 11, has emitted a cloud of toxic smoke that has led to traffic disruptions in the area. Parts of roads in the affected area are reportedly closed: specifically, the fire and associated toxic smoke closed exit 17 on the Brussels ring road, near Anderlecht. Brussels police have asked residents in the western and southern areas of the city (Forest and Uccle municipalities) to close windows and doors, and drivers in the area to shut off ventilation, to avoid inhaling the smoke. The fire is contained, but continues to burn as of Saturday afternoon (local time). Belgian authorities are considering evacuating the affected areas.

Advice

Individuals in the Brussels region are advised to close windows and doors to avoid inhaling the toxic smoke, to follow all instructions issued by relevant authorities, and to monitor developments to the situation.