On June 15th, local time, the fire at the Lockton Chemical Plant in Illinois, the United States, continued to burn into the second day. Firefighters said the fire may continue for several days.
The local fire department has forcibly evacuated all residents and businesses located within 1 mile of the chemical plant, and requires those who stay outdoors within 3 miles to wear masks.
The evacuated people were placed in an elementary school, and the community provided them with food, water and some necessary daily necessities.
70 chemical plant workers and 150 surrounding residents are currently safe and sound.
The fire department said that the toxic substances in the factory, including lead, nitrogen, and sulfuric acid, would only aggravate the fire, so the fire could not be easily extinguished with water.
The governor of Illinois has declared a state of emergency and requested relevant departments to closely monitor the fire and its impact on the environment.
(Produced by Wang Jiayi)
Editor in charge: [Li Ji]