A significant industrial fire broke out on Dock Road in Port Talbot, Wales, earlier today, sending towering plumes of dense black smoke into the sky and causing widespread travel disruptions.
The Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service responded promptly at 3:36 pm on Wednesday, April 29, deploying crews from multiple stations including Port Talbot, Neath, Morriston, Ammanford, Tumble, Carmarthen, Pontarddulais, and Glynneath. Firefighters are actively engaged in containing the large-scale blaze that continues to burn fiercely.
Witnesses reported seeing vast columns of smoke rising high above the town, visible from locations as far as Mumbles. The heavy smoke has spread across the surrounding areas, appearing prominently on the horizon and drifting over the nearby M4 motorway.
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In response to the hazardous conditions, authorities have advised local residents to keep their windows and doors closed to minimize smoke inhalation. The public is urged to avoid the Dock Road area to allow emergency responders unobstructed access to tackle the fire efficiently.
The thick smoke has also impacted traffic on the M4, causing congestion in both directions between Junction 41 (A48 Pentyla-Baglan Road) and Junction 40 (A4107 Tanygroes Street). Drivers are cautioned to exercise care due to reduced visibility and smoke drifting across the motorway.
Officials confirm the situation remains ongoing and ask for public patience as fire crews continue their efforts to bring the blaze under control.