Chemical Fire Explosion in Sao Paulo Hospitalizes Almost 200 Brazilians due to Breathing Difficulties

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A chemical fire erupted in São Paulo, Brazil, after the explosion happened in Brazil's Port of Santos. This leads to multiple hospitalization of people who inevitably inhaled and were affected by the toxic smoke that spread out.

According to the report by BBC News, the company owners said that the cargo warehouse is set in a chemical fire when containers filled with chloric acid and sodium dichloroisocyanurate, a kind of disinfectant agent, came in contact with rainwater that caused the reaction. The fire then spread toxic gas all over the country's biggest port as well as across four nearby cities.

The report also says that there are almost 200 Brazilians that have been taken to their nearest hospitals due to breathing difficulties. They have clearly been affected by the smoke of the chemical fire that was just extinguished after two days.

Meanwhile, United Press International reports that there are about 85 containers that have been damaged on site. Over 300 firefighters have battled the blaze while it was at its peak. And officials like the prosecutors have started investigating if someone might be blamed for the incident.

Maria Antoneita de Brito, the Guaruja mayor, has also warned the Brazilian people to stay out of the rain because it might have the chemical elements, which can burn the skin. Additionally, Guaruja City Hall has also warned that anyone who might feel irritation in the eyes, discomfort in the throat or feels nauseous must seek help right away.

Euronews also reveals that the blaze prompted the evacuation of a terminal as well as nearby homes. Initial information shows that it was unknown how the rainwater seeped in through the containers.

A worker at the warehouse, Anny Kaelly, describes the reaction to the eruption that: "When we realised what was going on, we left in a hurry. We left everything there. It's all there. Car, purse, bag... It's all there."

BBC News notes also that the warehouse terminal is operated by a certain logistics company that is based in Guaruja called Localfrio. Guaruja is a municipality that is located on the eastern side of Santos, in the state of São Paulo.

The company's spokesperson is the one who revealed what were in those containers. And it is also added in the report that the company exports chemicals that are used for refrigeration and general cargo.

For more details, check out the video clip below.