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Major Fire Engulfs Essen Scrapyard, 70 Firefighters Deployed

Over 70 firefighters battle a massive scrapyard fire in Essen. Residents advised to keep windows closed due to odor.

In the image we can see there are buildings and there is a factory. There is a smoke coming out of...
In the image we can see there are buildings and there is a factory. There is a smoke coming out of the factory and the image is in black and white colour.

Major Fire Engulfs Essen Scrapyard, 70 Firefighters Deployed

A major fire broke out at a scrapyard in Essen-Katernberg early on April 21, 2025. The blaze, which started at 01:04 AM, was large and required the deployment of approximately 70 firefighters from professional and volunteer departments. Residents were advised to keep their windows and doors closed due to odor nuisance.

The fire, measuring around 100m by 50m and reaching heights of 10-15m, involved a metal scrap pile. Fire brigades from neighboring cities were called in to assist, with the Essen Fire Department using two turntable ladders, water monitors, and handheld hoses to combat the flames. The Environmental Agency of Essen and LANUV conducted measurements, finding no increased pollutant values or health-endangering airborne toxins.

To ensure a steady water supply, a hose line was laid to the Rhine-Herne Canal, about 1.5 km away. The NINA warning app was triggered due to strong smoke development. The Stauderstrasse was closed in the area of the Emscherstrasse, with restrictions also imposed on the Hölscherstrasse.

The fire operation is ongoing, with the scrap pile needing to be removed using a grabber. The duration of the operation remains uncertain. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, ensuring the safety of residents and the environment.

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