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Major blaze at Rawdon air conditioning factory | Major blaze at Rawdon air conditioning factory |
(about 1 hour later) | |
A major fire at an air conditioning unit factory on the outskirts of Leeds has sent thick smoke across the city. | |
The blaze at Airedale Air Conditioning on Leeds Road in Rawdon is being tackled by about 100 firefighters. | |
West Yorkshire Fire Service said it was a "very significant" blaze but it was now under control and it hoped to be able to save a large part of the site. | |
Roads have been closed, causing traffic disruption, and motorists have been urged to avoid the area. | |
About 20 fire engines are at the site and firefighters are expected to remain there overnight and well into Saturday, the fire service said. | |
Police warning | |
Dave Walton, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, said: "This is a very significant incident that's calling in resources from right across West Yorkshire." | |
Mr Walton said it was too early to know the cause of the blaze but a "robust investigation" would take place once it was safe for investigators to enter the building. | |
The A65 New Road Side in Rawdon has been closed and traffic is queuing in both directions between the B6152 Harrogate Road junction and the A6120 Broadway junction. | |
Congestion is building on other neighbouring routes and police have urged drivers to stay away from the Calverley, Horsforth and Rawdon areas "unless absolutely necessary". | |
Smoke from the fire could be seen for miles. | |
Graham Branston emailed BBC News and said: "As I write, thick smoke 100ft high is still bellowing out of the works and has been for around an hour." | Graham Branston emailed BBC News and said: "As I write, thick smoke 100ft high is still bellowing out of the works and has been for around an hour." |
Leanne Lister tweeted: "The fire in Rawdon looks and sounds absolutely horrendous." | Leanne Lister tweeted: "The fire in Rawdon looks and sounds absolutely horrendous." |