Taiwan Factory Inferno: Smoke Alert Issued for Hukou and Yangmei Residents

Massive Fire Erupts in Hsinchu County, Prompting Environmental Warnings and Safety Measures

A significant fire broke out this morning at a factory in Hukou Township, Hsinchu County, Taiwan. The blaze, which involved the storage of industrial waste, produced thick, acrid smoke that has prompted health warnings from the Hsinchu County Environmental Protection Bureau. Firefighters are working to contain the fire, but the lingering smoke poses a potential health hazard.

The Environmental Protection Bureau has issued an alert, indicating that the smoke plume is expected to drift downwind, potentially affecting areas in Hukou Township, Hsinchu County, and Yangmei District in Taoyuan City. Residents in these areas are advised to monitor air quality and to minimize outdoor activities.

Local representative Weng Shao-Hsuan, who was on the scene, reported a strong odor emanating from the fire. Firefighters are making progress in controlling the flames, and the process of extinguishing it is ongoing. Heavy equipment will be used to dig through the debris. Power has been cut off by Taiwan Power Company to mitigate risks. Hukou Township Mayor Wu Shu-chun is also monitoring the situation. The Hsinchu County Fire Department is coordinating water lines with the heavy equipment to cool the area.