Massive fire erupts at Opal Paper Mill in Sydney's east as firefighters battle flames
Dozens of firefighters battled a fast-moving blaze at the Opal Paper Mill in Matraville, with evacuations and thick smoke prompting road closures.
A massive fire at the Opal Paper Mill on Botany Road in Matraville prompted evacuations and road closures in Sydney's east on Friday afternoon after flames erupted shortly after 1 p.m. local time.
Dozens of firefighters were dispatched to the scene, with authorities saying more than 80 remained at the site to bring the blaze under control, which was fueled by strong winds. The fire has spread to at least 10 cars in the industrial complex. Police are evacuating nearby businesses and homes and advising motorists to avoid the area as local diversions are put in place.
Aerial photos show the scene blanketed in large clouds of black smoke as emergency responders work to contain the blaze. Residents described the scene as frightening, with one telling the Daily Telegraph: "It was a picture perfect day then all of a sudden there was black smoke everywhere and very loud bangs. I couldn't see my garage from my back door because of the smoke." Authorities said more information would be released as the situation develops, and urged Sydneysiders to avoid the area.