Huge blaze burns through chemical plant as dozens of fire engines called to scene and 150 locals evacuated

A MAJOR blaze has erupted at a chemical plant, sending thick smoke and flames high into the sky as 150 people are forced to evacuate. Panicked locals have fled their homes as 30 fire engines and over 60 fire personnel combat the intense factory fire in Brazil. A factory has exploded in Greater São Paulo Credit: x.com/mexicotimes Firefighters work to extinguish a the blaze at the chemical plant Credit: x.com/mexicotimes A large fire burns at a chemical plant in Sao Paulo Credit: AFP Multiple explosions have occurred Credit: AFP It is understood the inferno broke out at a solvent plant in Itaquaquecetuba, Greater São Paulo around 3pm. Video and images from the scene show giant flames roaring from the factory with plumes of opaque smoke rising over 100ft into the air. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! Officials have confirmed “multiple explosions” have occurred at the scene. Footage shows a chemical drum launched into the air as extreme pressure builds from the burning materials. Heavy smoke rises from the factory Credit: x.com/mexicotimes The blaze erupted from a solvent factory around 3pm Credit: x.com/mexicotimes Dense columns of smoke burst from drains as the thick gas it is forced underground. In one video a manhole cover exploding from the ground, with local media reporting that the blast knocked a passerby off their feet. The operation is considered complex as there are 24 solvent tanks in the factory – literally adding fuel to the flames. Additionally, the fire is concentrated in an industrial area which contains highly volatile products, further increasing the risks of explosions. Most read in The Sun Around 150 have evacuated the immediate area Credit: AFP Over 60 firefighters tackle the blaze Credit: AFP Sao Paulo’s military fire brigade said: “No record of victims so far.” It is understood that electricity has been cut in the immediate area and 150 have been evacuated. The company affected is Quema Química, which produces and markets solvents and polyester resins. The factory has 24 solvent storage tanks, each with an approximate capacity of 31 cubic meters. Fire crews continue to tackle the blaze. More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online Thesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us on TikTok @TheSun. Comment now