Fire at Trieben tar pond triggers public warning

A fire at a tar pond facility in Trieben prompted a siren warning and an AT-Alert for the surrounding area, ORF reported. Authorities urged people to stay indoors because of heavy smoke.

The warning applies to the area around the former Magnesite Works landfill in the municipality of Trieben. Residents were told to go into buildings, close doors and windows, switch off ventilation and air conditioning, follow instructions from emergency services and authorities, and avoid the affected area.

Seven fire brigades from the Paltental valley are tackling the blaze at a tar pond facility. The pond was artificially built to store liquid operational waste safely. Firefighters said the operation was proving difficult and they were trying to smother the fire with a blanket of foam. They reported initial progress.

The State Warning Centre said it would announce when the warning had been lifted.