Massive explosion and fire at Derrimut factory near Melbourne

Firefighters were called to a significant blaze following an explosion at a factory on Swann Drive in Derrimut, approximately 30 km from Melbourne‘s central business district, at around 11:20 am on Wednesday. The explosion was so forceful that it sent a chemical drum flying hundreds of metres into the air, causing thick black smoke to billow into the sky.

Authorities have issued a watch and act alert for residents and workers in multiple suburbs including Albion, Braybrook, Brooklyn, Derrimut, Laverton North, Sunshine, Sunshine West, Tottenham, and Truganina. The emergency services warned that the wind is carrying toxic smoke eastward across Derrimut, urging anyone in the smoke-affected areas to seek shelter indoors immediately. Residents not currently at home have been advised against returning, while those in the vicinity are instructed to keep doors, windows, and vents closed to avoid exposure.

The factory is notably close to a gas pipeline; however, emergency services have not raised any specific alarms regarding this infrastructure at this time. Last year, this location was the site of another fire triggered by an explosion, which resulted in one fatality and injuries to two other workers.

Traffic flow has been severely disrupted, with outbound lanes of the Western Freeway near the factory and Swann Drive shut down. Authorities have cautioned drivers in the area to keep their windows closed to avoid inhaling smoke and to refrain from slowing down to look at the fire. Paramedics are present at the scene, monitoring the health of those affected, though no hospital transports have been reported thus far.

Victoria Police have confirmed that there have been no injuries reported as of now and it is believed that everyone inside the factory managed to evacuate safely. However, traffic is expected to be significantly affected for some time, with closures on Swann Drive and westbound traffic on the Deer Park bypass.

Emergency services continue to manage the situation, providing updates as new information becomes available.