CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP, PA -- Crews are still on the scene of a massive fire in Adams County.
It started around 3:30 a.m. at the Miller Chemical and Fertilizer Plant along the 100 block of Radio Road in Conewago Township, Adams County.
According to the director of Adams County emergency services, John Eline, the smoke and chemicals are not hazardous. However, they could be irritating to those with pre-existing conditions, such as lung or breathing problems.
Everyone within a one-mile radius of the plant is being ordered to stay inside.
Look at this map to see if you are within the radius.
That also includes nearby businesses. Officials are asking that they remain closed until the scene is clear.
Throughout the morning, thick clouds of smoke could be seen for miles. There were dozens of explosions throughout morning. Witnesses say it sounded like fireworks going off. Officials say it was containers of chemicals/fertilizers getting too hot and exploding- not a chemical reaction.
As of 10:30 a.m. the fire was considered under control but smoke still was coming from building. The fire chief called it the "hot zone,"saying some areas are still burning inside.
Crews have also made a makeshift dam to try and retain some of the water leftover from fighting fire.
When they arrived this morning officials say they made the decision to, 'let it burn' in order to keep firefighters safe as well as avoid having runoff water that at the time they didn't know if it was hazardous or not.
Originally , it was reported that two workers were inside when fire broke out. However, it turns out that was not the case. The building was locked. Firefighters had to force entry.
There are no injuries reported. The Fire Marshal is investigating the cause.
