Brazil: Emergency services responding to large industrial fire near Ponta Grossa early evening Dec. 26

Event

Several fire departments are responding to a large fire at the Baslar Eletros in the Cara-Cara neighborhood of Ponta Grossa early evening Dec. 26. The exact cause of the fire remains unclear. There have been no immediate reports of casualties; the fire is reportedly producing a large cloud of black smoke over nearby areas.

Heightened security and localized business and transport disruptions are likely over the coming hours as emergency response and investigations continue.

Advice

Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent related disruptions. 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. Heed all official instructions including evacuation orders.