'Illegal' fireworks warehouse explodes in Dubai

Two people have died and another person was injured at a huge fire that broke out in Dubai’s Al Quoz Industrial area at about seven this morning, according to latest local media report. The actual cause of the fire is still unclear.

Local media reports state that the explosion was at an 'illegal' fireworks factory.

An eye witness estimated the scene of explosion to be about three kilometres away from the National Cement Factory, near the Grand Shopping Mall in Al Quoz area. A helicopter was also seen hovering over the fire scene.

Abu Nasier, spokesperson of the Dubai Ministry of Civil Defence said, “We cannot determine as of yet how much is the damage to material properties because the fire has not been contained yet,’ he told Emirates Business. He added that Civil Defence and Dubai Police officials are doing their best to bring fire under control.

The smoke could be seen moving from the Shiekh Zayed Road towards Dubai marine area. Local FM radio channels reported that smoke is visible in Sharjah as well.

Dubai Police and Civil Defence officials diverted traffic in major roads in Dubai as fire trucks rushed towards the area.

Some educational institutions such as Jumeirah English Speaking School and Jumeirah College were advised by the Civil Defence authorities to send children home as they lie in the vicinity of this morning’s fire. Parents were asked to collect their children immediately. Sharjah residents have reported of the presence of ash in the air.

Earlier in the morning, a loud explosion was earlier heard by those living and working near the industrial area. The loud noise rattled windows and doors. According to some unconfirmed reports, the fire started in a depot that illegally stored firecrackers in the industrial area.

Last year, at least four massive fires broke out in the Al Quoz Industrial Area, mostly in warehouses where hazardous chemicals were stored.