CFA and MFB firefighters are battling a large rubbish fire at a recycling plant in Somerton.
Crews were called to the scene just after 2.30 this morning.
The rubbish pile is around 100x100 metres in size and 10 metres high. The amount of rubbish currently on fire is about 80x20 metres.
CFA State Duty Officer Lachlan Redman said the pile contains a range of rubbish including building material.
“Due to the type of fire this is, it’s likely to burn all day – if not for several days,” he said.
“We’ve issued a Watch and Act message to the local community due to the amount of smoke issuing from the fire.
“We’re advising people in the area to immediately close windows and switch off any external ventilation such as air conditioning.”
The smoke is beginning to impact homes and businesses between Craigieburn Road, Hume Highway, Bridgewater Road/Donald Cameron Drive and Somerton Road.
CFA and EPA are undertaking atmospheric monitoring at the site.
35 CFA and MFB vehicles are on scene and a water aircraft is also assisting with the fire.
The cause of the fire is unknown at this stage and will be investigated.
The Hume Highway has been closed between Somerton Road and Patullos Lane.
The Hume Leader has reported on the fire and captured some amazing photos from the scene:
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/north-west/firefighters-battle-large-blaze-in-somerton/news-story/a579202645b76eb79aa8b49469f8332b
Author: CFA Media