US: Authorities responding to warehouse fire north of downtown St. Louis, Mo., late Oct. 25

Event

Authorities are responding to a warehouse fire at North 1st and O’Fallon streets, north of downtown St. Louis, Missouri, as of late Oct. 25. The fire began in a vacant five-story warehouse earlier in the evening, and at least 100 firefighters are battling the blaze. Reports suggest that the fire is threatening three nearby buildings, including the Laclede Power Generation facility. At least one person has been injured. Officials did not immediately confirm the cause of the blaze.

Heightened security measures, including the deployment of additional personnel, are likely near the affected area, as are localized transit and business disruptions. Power outages are possible if the fire affects nearby electrical infrastructure. Lingering disruptions may occur after the fire is extinguished, as officials conclude their investigation of the blaze.

Advice

Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Heed all officials orders. Plan for transport and business disruptions. Seek alternative routes and allow additional travel time to nearby destinations. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is heavy, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water. Plan for power outages.