Explosion at Factory on the Outskirts of Melbourne Ignites Massive Fire

An explosion destroyed a factory on the outskirts of Melbourne, Australia, on Wednesday, resulting in a massive fire that firefighters indicated would take days to fully extinguish. The Country Fire Authority of Victoria reported that more than 180 firefighters are working to control the blaze at the facility located in Derrimut, about 16 kilometers west of Melbourne. No injuries were reported from the explosion, which sent thick black smoke billowing over Melbourne and closed nearby highways. Officials have advised residents near the site to shelter in their homes to avoid toxic fumes resulting from the burning chemicals inside the factory.