Passaic City Mayor Hector C. Lora has instructed locals to keep their windows closed and remain inside amid a chemical fire in the area. Multiple buildings were involved in the fire, according to Lora.
Authorities have reportedly blocked off several streets and area firefighters are evacuating those deemed to be in the danger zone. Route 21 has been barricaded in all directions at Exit 12-Dayton Street.
Videos from the scene in northeast New Jersey appear to show the fire raging from the three-storey Qualco warehouse.
Qualco is a company that markets and sells a variety of swimming pool and spa treatment chemicals.
"We urge everyone in Passaic to stay safe as firefighters battle a large eight-alarm fire at a chemical plant off of Route 21", tweeted New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. "If you live nearby, keep your windows closed. Praying for the safety of our first responders on the scene".
No injuries have been reported in connection with the fire.