A dangerous toxic cloud formed following a fire at a swimming pool chemicals factory in Vilanova i la Geltrú. The blaze erupted at around 02:20 on Saturday, 10 May, at Clim Waterpool, a company specialising in cleaning products for swimming pools.
The affected site, located at 18 Rambla dels Països Catalans in Vilanova i la Geltrú, contained approximately 70 tonnes of chlorine—a highly toxic substance when it burns.
Catalonia’s Civil Protection activated its chemical risk plan, PLASEQCAT, and sent emergency alerts to residents’ mobile phones in the affected areas.
Immediate Response and Containment Orders
Lockdown orders have been lifted, however vulnerable people are still advised to stay inside for the moment. The towns affected were:
- Vilanova i la Geltrú (Barcelona).
- Sant Pere de Ribes (Barcelona)
- Cubelles (Barcelona)
- Cunit (Tarragona)
- Calafell (Tarragona)
- The centre of Roquetes
Authorities had instructed residents to stay indoors, keep doors and windows closed, and not to use air-conditioning devices that can filter contaminated outdoor air.
Fire Status and Emergency Response
Firefighters from Catalonia report that the blaze is now in the stabilisation phase, with efforts successfully preventing its spread to nearby industrial buildings. Civil Protection has confirmed that no injuries have been reported so far, as the wind is directing the toxic cloud towards the sea, minimising the threat to densely populated areas.
Vilanova i la Geltrú town council warned on its social media that activities at the “La Fira Conte Va!” festival, outdoor sports activities, libraries, the Central Market and the Fish Market have been cancelled.
Emergency deployment
Sixty firefighters are working in the area with teams specialised in chemical risks constantly assessing the situation.
The Medical Emergency System (SEM) has sent three units that remain on alert. Local Police are ensuring civilians comply with confinement orders.
Coordination between authorities
Civil Protection, operating from its coordination centre (CECAT), is in continuous contact with town councils and local police of all affected municipalities to ensure a coordinated response.
Health authorities are advising anyone experiencing symptoms such as eye irritation, breathing difficulties, or general discomfort to seek immediate medical assistance.
Recommendations for the affected population
Authorities stress the importance of strictly following official recommendations. It is essential to remain indoors until the containment order is lifted.
In case you need to go out due to an unavoidable emergency, it is recommended to protect your respiratory tract with appropriate masks and minimise the time you are exposed to the open air.
Stay informed through official channels such as local radio stations, official social media accounts of Civil Protection and affected municipalities.
