"French Lithium Battery Plant Engulfed in Major Fire"

A major fire broke out at a battery recycling plant in southern France, with 900 tonnes of lithium batteries on fire, sending a thick black smoke cloud into the sky. Lithium batteries, vital in electrical devices, contain combustible materials and can emit toxic fumes when burning. Firefighters are battling to control the fire, but authorities have stated that there is no immediate danger to nearby residents. The fire is expected to last for several hours, and the site's security note warns of potential emission of cadmium through fumes, although it is not expected to pose an immediate health risk to residents.