Firefighters in Baltimore have been working tirelessly to battle a massive brushfire at a wood recycling yard that has caused significant disruptions in the city. The fire, which started at the Camp Small yard, quickly spread due to high winds, leading to the closure of a section of the expressway into downtown Baltimore, as well as the neighboring light rail line and nearby roads and schools.
The fire was first reported on Thursday evening, with firefighters arriving to find a large pile of trees and logs engulfed in flames. The challenging conditions, exacerbated by the wind, made it difficult for crews to gain control of the fire. Approximately 100 to 125 firefighters have been on the scene, working to contain the blaze.
Despite the challenges, firefighters managed to gain the upper hand on Thursday night, and by Friday morning, the fire was contained. As a result, officials were able to reopen Interstate 83, which had been closed due to the fire.
Due to the proximity of the fire, two nearby high schools were closed on Friday, and a planned fireworks display in downtown Baltimore was canceled. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries as a result of the fire, despite crews working throughout the night to battle the flames.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, with officials yet to provide a timeline for when it may be fully extinguished. The wood recycling yard, which processes tree waste from Baltimore streets, sidewalks, and parks, is a crucial part of the city's waste management system, providing materials for lumber, mulch, and local builders.
Officials have commended the efforts of the firefighters in tackling the blaze and expressed gratitude for their hard work in bringing the situation under control. The community is urged to remain vigilant and follow any safety instructions issued by authorities as they continue to monitor the situation.
