Iran: Emergency crews responding to fire at petrochemical plant in Shokuhieh Industrial Town, Qom Province, May 2

Event

Emergency crews are responding to a large fire at a petrochemical plant in Shokuhieh Industrial Town, Qom Province, May 2. The blaze was caused by an explosion, though the source of the explosion remains unclear. Approximately 150 firefighters and 20 fire trucks have deployed to the site; incoming reports suggest at least two firefighters have been injured, while two fire trucks caught ablaze. It remains unclear if firefighters have brought the fire under control. Shokuhieh Industrial Town is located approximately 16 km (10 miles) north of Qom city.

Increased security, as well as localized transport and business disruptions, are likely near the incident site. Traffic may be disrupted on the Persian Gulf Freeway (Freeway 7) and Tehran-Qom Old Road (Road 71) near the incident site. Authorities could evacuate nearby buildings as a precaution. Lingering disruptions are possible after crews extinguish the fire as investigations and recovery operations continue.

Smoke may also worsen symptoms for people with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as allergies, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Advice

Avoid the area until the situation stabilizes and authorities give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes to circumvent the incident site. Allow additional time to reach destinations in the affected area through at least the evening of May 2. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is heavy, especially if suffering from a respiratory illness such as asthma or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.