UK: Authorities responding to explosion and structure fire at food waste recycling plant near Yarnton, Oxfordshire, as of late Oct. 2

Event

Emergency crews are responding to an explosion and fire at a food waste recycling plant near Yarnton, Oxfordshire, as of late Oct. 2. Authorities assert that lightning likely struck biogas containers at the Severn Trent Green Power Plant, causing at least one of them to explode and igniting a large fire at the facility. The blast and blaze have caused power outages in Witney, Burford, Chipping Norton, and Milton-under-Wychwood. Power outages may impact additional communities in the area over the short term.

Officials did not immediately confirm any casualties in connection with the incident. Authorities have closed the A40 highway to traffic between Wolvercote and Eynsham to facilitate the emergency response. Officials have also asked residents near the incident site to stay at home and shut their windows and doors amid smoke from the fire.

Increased security and disruptions to transport and business are likely in the affected area until authorities extinguish the blaze and vacate the scene. The smoke from the fire may noticeably worsen air quality in the area over the short term.

Advice

Avoid the incident site until authorities give the all-clear. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent the blaze and any related disruptions. Allow additional time to reach nearby destinations. Consider remaining indoors and keeping windows and doors closed, 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. Adhere to all instructions issued by local officials.