Iraq: Fire reported at oil refinery in Erbil July 18

Event

Emergency crews are reportedly responding to a fire at an oil refinery along the Erbil-Al Kuwayr road outside of Erbil as of early July 18. There have been no immediate reports of casualties. Authorities have not confirmed the cause of the fire.

Increased security, as well as localized transport disruptions, are likely near the incident site. Authorities could evacuate structures in the area as a precaution. Lingering disruptions are possible after crews extinguish the fire as authorities continue investigations and recovery operations.

Advice

Avoid the area until the responders have brought the fire under control 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 the morning of July 18. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is heavy, especially if you suffer 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.