Spain: Chemical plant explosion in Tarragona kills at least one person January 14 /update 1

Event

Regional officials confirmed that one person was killed due to the explosion at a chemical plant in Tarragona (Catalonia) at approximately 18:40 (local time) on Tuesday, January 14. At least nine other people suffered injuries in the blast, including three people with serious burns. Emergency personnel are deployed into the area and are working to fully extinguish the fire in a chemical tank. Officials said that the fire is not toxic, but Catalonia’s civil protection agency warned citizens in La Canonja and Vila-seca to remain indoors and to keep windows closed as a preemptive measure. Individuals in parts of Tarragona, as well as in the communities of Salou, Reus, Constanti, and El Morell have been warned to stay indoors if they are bothered by the smoke. As of 00:33 on Wednesday, January 15, all rail service departing from Tarragona to the south has been suspended until the fire is fully extinguished.

A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions, including road closures and rail service disruptions, are to be expected in the area over the coming hours.  

Advice

Individuals in Tarragona are advised to monitor the situation, avoid the area, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.