A large fire broke out today around 1 pm in Palmi in the former Radi plant (today the collection and treatment of waste is entrusted to Poly2Oil, which deals with the disposal of paper, cardboard, plastic, glass and bulky waste). The fire produced a column of black smoke visible from a great distance, causing concern among residents. The cloud headed towards Taurianova, while Palmi has been spared for the moment because the wind is blowing in the opposite direction. For this reason, the mayor of Taurianova, Roy Biasi, with a post on social media asks citizens not to go out and announces an ordinance: due to an approaching toxic cloud, the mayor invites “everyone to stay indoors and keep the windows closed. It is important to avoid staying outdoors until further notice to ensure your safety and that of your families. We will keep you updated with further information. An ordinance is about to be issued in this regard. Thank you for your cooperation and your understanding”.
Currently there are over 20 Fire Brigade units involved with the support of a Fire Brigade Fire Extinguishing Operations Director, from the Reggio Calabria Command, to coordinate the intervention of the air vehicles.
Mayor Giuseppe Ranuccio spoke of a “probably toxic” cloud caused by the burning of a large quantity of waste, but the causes are unknown. Contacts are underway with the civil protection and the prefecture.
The press release from the Municipality of Palmi
The operations to extinguish the fire that broke out in the afternoon at the Poly2oil plastic materials storage yard are extremely complex due to the burnt materials.
The Canadair was unable to perform the release operations due to the thick smoke.
The fire-fighting operations from the ground will continue throughout the night and at all costs by the Fire Brigade present on site with several teams.
Unfortunately the wind direction is changing and a pungent smell is starting to be felt in some areas of the city.
Citizens are advised to limit their movements, avoid approaching the plant area in any way whatsoever, as well as stopping to look around on the roads near the plant; at home, close doors and windows as a precaution.
We are following the evolution of the situation.