Fire ongoing at Newport seafood plant as evacuation zone shrinks; officials say no injuries

Key Points:

• A fire broke out early Sunday morning at the Pacific Seafood processing plant in Newport, prompting evacuation orders and the opening of shelters; residents are advised to stay indoors and wear masks to avoid smoke inhalation.
• Hazmat teams deployed by the Oregon State Fire Marshall have detected no ammonia leaks, though they continue to monitor the ammonia tanks inside the building and structural stability.
• Firefighters have contained the fire to the 11,000-square-foot facility with no injuries reported; the evacuation zone has been reduced from a 1-mile radius to specific nearby blocks.
• The cause of the fire remains unknown, and an investigation will begin once the fire is fully extinguished; Pacific Seafoods expressed devastation and committed to supporting employees and the community.
• Officials and experts raised concerns about potential environmental pollution and respiratory risks from chemicals used in the plant, while local residents expressed worry about the economic impact on Newport.