New Zealand: Authorities responding to fire at scrap metal yard along James Fletcher Drive in Favona area of Auckland as of early May 31

Event

Authorities are responding to a fire at a scrap metal yard along James Fletcher Drive in the Favona area of Auckland as of the morning of May 31. Officials have instructed local residents to keep their windows and doors closed and other individuals to avoid the area due to toxic smoke. Security personnel have suspended traffic on James Fletcher Drive between Beach Road and Tui Street and diverted bus services that run along the thoroughfare. There were no immediate reports of casualties in connection with the blaze. Officials are likely to provide updates over the coming hours.

Authorities are likely to maintain an increased security presence in the affected area until the firefighting operations conclude. Emergency personnel may impose enhanced security measures, including evacuation orders, depending on the needs of the emergency response. Transport disruptions are likely in the area over the coming hours, especially along James Fletcher Drive.

Advice

Avoid the scene of the blaze until the firefighting operations conclude. Allow additional travel time in the area, and consider taking alternative routes to circumvent the incident site and any related disruptions. Follow all instructions from security personnel, including any evacuation orders. 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.