A fire broke out around 2:20am on Saturday in a warehouse in Vilanova i la Geltrú, Barcelona, which stored around 70 tonnes of chlorine. The building belongs to the company Clim Waterpool, which makes pool cleaning products. The fire released a large toxic cloud, prompting emergency services to take immediate action.

Residents told to stay indoors in five towns

Due to the toxic smoke, around 150,000 people in five coastal towns were told to stay indoors. The affected areas include Vilanova i la Geltrú, Cubelles, Roquetes (in Sant Pere de Ribes), Cunit and Calafell.

Cataluña’s Civil Protection agency sent emergency alerts to mobile phones at 5:30am, telling people to close doors and windows, stay inside, and not use air conditioning or heating units.

L'incendi de Vilanova i la Geltrú continua actiu. Està confinat a la nau de productes per a piscines i treballem amb l'objectiu d'evitar la propagació a les naus adjacents.

No consten ferits
Hi ha 25 🚒 #bomberscat amb #GRIT #GROS #UCM mobilitzades#PLASEQCAT @emergenciescat pic.twitter.com/AbwrXBu58e

— Bombers (@bomberscat) May 10, 2025

No injuries reported so far

Although the cloud may cause eye or throat irritation, there have been no reported injuries. Three emergency medical units are at the scene as a precaution. The wind is currently pushing the cloud out to sea, helping reduce the risk to nearby areas.

Roads and trains affected

The fire caused travel disruption in the area. The C-31 motorway was closed near Vilanova, and train services on the R2 South line and regional routes have been suspended between Sitges and Sant Vicenç de Calders. Shuttle buses are in place.

Fire under control, but not yet out

More than 60 firefighters and 29 fire units are still working to control the fire. Special chemical and technology risk teams are on site. The fire has been stabilised, and the spread to nearby buildings has been stopped.

Authorities will continue monitoring the air quality and weather, including the chance of rain, which could help clear the toxic cloud.

Update

[To be updated as more information becomes available]

Authorities have said that the lockdown remains in place for now and may continue until the toxic cloud fully clears. Weather conditions, especially wind direction and possible rain, will play a key role in how quickly the situation improves. Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and local news sources.

Main image:X/@bomberscat