Cloud above Belgian chemical plant not toxic

An explosion occurred at around 5am at the Benechim chemical plant in the Walloon town of Lessines, and was quickly followed by a fire. However, the cloud above the plant is not toxic. All night-shift workers were evacuated, and there have been no reports of victims. The blast was at first thought by experts to post a threat of toxic contamination. However, firefighters called to the scene said  that “there is no danger; the fumes are not toxic”. The mayor of Lessines, Jean-Marie Degauque, sought to reassure residents, saying: “The fire appears to be under control. There is no more smoke coming out of the plant, but the fire brigade remains vigilant on the scene.” The blast was reportedly triggered by a flame, although the cause of the fire hasn’t yet been determined.