Toxic cloud continues to spread in southeastern Brazil
Toxic cloud continues to spread in southeastern Brazil
Source: Xinhua 2016-01-16 10:43:20
RIO DE JANEIRO, Jan. 15 (Xinhua) -- Firefighters are still trying to put out a fire in a terminal in the Santos Port, which caused a toxic cloud to spread over the nearby region, Brazilian authorities said on Friday evening.
The incident is believed to have started when a container full of chlorine-based chemicals was flooded by rainwater, which caused a chemical reaction to release a toxic cloud in the region. A fire developed and spread over dozens of other containers, which increased the size and reach of the cloud. Three towns -- Santos, Guaruja and Sao Vicente, all located on the coast of Sao Paulo state -- have been hit by the fire.
The cloud caused skin and eye irritation as well as breathing problems among nearby populations. Over 150 people have sought medical help so far. Authorities recommend that the people who live near the fire site should leave the area, but stressed the substance is not lethal.
The local fire department said the fire reached a total of 80 containers since Thursday afternoon, but now only 14 continue to burn.
More:
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2016-01/16/c_135014987.htm
Brazil has been getting hammered recently by enormous environmental catastrophes brought on by business. When will they catch a break, anyway?