Treforest industrial estate fire and explosion: Everything we know so far
One person remains missing after a huge blaze at an industrial estate in South Wales following a reported explosion.
The fire-ravaged building on Treforest Industrial Estate in Pontypridd is at risk of collapse, according to firefighters, and the local council has warned people to keep away from the area.
Three people were injured and treated at the scene. The reported explosion occured shortly after 7pm last night and a “major incident” was declared for several hours.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said mos of the fire was now out, with small pockets remaining. However police warned the incident is ongoing and emergency services are still on the scene.
How did the fire start?
Police received reports of an explosion at two-storey building that houses 13 commercial units including a gym, a towel manufacturer, a food laboratory and a telecoms service company.
The property was “totally alight” and “at risk of collapse”, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said.
Three injured people were treated at the scene before being discharged, while hospitals across south Wales were put on alert, a Welsh Ambulance Service spokesperson said.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Dewi Rose said: “At 7.05pm this evening SWFRS responded to repeat calls about an explosion at Mindset Gym, Rizla House, Severn Road on Treforest Industrial Estate, Pontypridd.
“South Wales Fire and Rescue Service currently has 16 pumping appliances, a number of special appliances and officers in attendance. The latest from the scene is that the building, a large multi-use use two storey, commercial premises, is totally alight and at risk of collapse.”
Speaking to Sky News, local councillor Karl Johnson said the front of a building had been “completely destroyed” in the incident.
Jonny Foxhall, 36, the owner of nearby music venue Green Rooms, told Press Association: “Our front door was flung open so we went out to see what had happened.
“We could see a smoke cloud and an orange glow from above the treeline quickly followed by flames.”
He added: “To feel the shockwave from the explosion is something I’ve never experienced before.”
Local football coach Charlotte Preen, who was nearby with a group, told Wales Online: “The building shook, and a lot of moisture came from the ceiling. It was very strong. Some of the players were quite concerned, obviously realising it sounded a bit louder than a firework.
WWe’ve been updated that there was some form of serious explosion in the industrial estate. Parents found it really difficult to pick up their children [after the session], unfortunately.”
What is the advice to residents?
Emergency services remain at the scene of the fire, according to Rhondda Cynon Taff Council.
Residents living nearby are advised to close all doors and windows while the incident is continuing, while significant road closures remain in place and the public is requested to avoid the area and only travel if necessary.
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Rhondda council said the A473 Power Station Hill remains closed this morning between Upper Boat Roundabout and the Roundabout on the Church Village Bypass.
Other roads that may be affected include the A473 Tonteg Road between the Upper Boat and Power Station Hill roundabouts, Severn Road, Taffs Mead Road, Taffs Fall Road, Bridge Road and Ford Road.
School transport is likely to be delayed, and the council warned bin collections and home care calls may also be affected.
