Ammonia leak from Pacific Seafood fire triggers Level 3 evacuation in Newport
A large fire at a Pacific Seafood facility in Newport, Oregon, has triggered a Level 3 evacuation order within a one-mile radius due to potential ammonia contamination. The incident, which began Sunday morning, resulted in a partial roof collapse and significant smoke, prompting local authorities to close roads and establish a shelter at Sam Case Elementary School. No injuries have been reported, but residents are advised to remain indoors or wear masks.
Key points
- A fire broke out at the Pacific Seafood plant on Newport's Bayfront on Sunday morning, leading to a Level 3 'Go Now' evacuation order within a one-mile radius.
- The evacuation was ordered by the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office due to concerns about ammonia contamination from the facility.
- An evacuation shelter was established at Sam Case Elementary School, which is accepting pets, and the Lincoln County School District closed other local schools as a precaution.
- Newport Fire Chief Rob Murphy confirmed the presence of ammonia in the smoke and noted a partial roof collapse at the facility, describing the operation as lengthy.
- No injuries have been reported, and the Oregon State Fire Marshal is sending a regional hazardous materials team to assist with the response.
Background
This incident follows a pattern of hazardous material releases in recent weeks, such as the chemical leak in Toledo, Ohio, which also prompted a one-mile evacuation. While the current event is specific to a seafood processing plant, the response mirrors previous incidents involving toxic fumes and mandatory evacuations.
How outlets are covering it
KCBY and KPTV reported the fire at 203 SW Bay Blvd and 213 SW Bay Blvd, respectively, while the Lincoln Chronicle and Statesman Journal cited 245 S.E. Bay Blvd and 213 SW Bay Blvd. The Lincoln Chronicle provided the most detailed account, noting the fire was reported at 8:51 a.m. and that 40 firefighters were on scene by mid-morning. KCBY and KPTV emphasized the evacuation order and shelter details, while the Lincoln Chronicle highlighted the partial roof collapse and the presence of ammonia in the smoke. The Statesman Journal reported the fire was reported at 8:20 a.m. via Pulsepoint.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the risks associated with industrial facilities handling hazardous materials, such as ammonia, in densely populated areas. The evacuation and response underscore the importance of emergency preparedness and the coordination between local and state authorities in managing such events.
What to watch
Authorities are expected to provide additional updates as the fire is contained and the situation is assessed. The Oregon State Fire Marshal's hazardous materials team is en route to assist, and the evacuation order may be lifted once the area is deemed safe.
- Evacuation orders issued for mile radius around Newport fire KCBY
- Crews battle large fire at building on Newport Bayfront, evacuations in place KPTV
- BREAKING NEWS: Evacuations ordered within one mile of seafood plant fire on Newport's Bayfront Lincoln Chronicle
- Seafood facility fire prompts evacuations in Newport OregonLive.com
- Evacuation ordered in Newport for ammonia contamination after fire Statesman Journal
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on KCBY