Hillside, NJ Explosion and Fire: Multiple Businesses Damaged, Air Quality Concerns

Major Fire Erupts in Hillside

• 💥 An explosion at an autobody shop on Maple Avenue in Hillside, New Jersey, sparked a massive fire.
• 🔥 The blaze quickly spread, affecting six businesses and damaging several nearby homes.
• 🚒 The fire reached a five-alarm status and was still active hours after it began.

Air Quality and Safety Concerns

• ⚠️ Firefighters expressed significant concern over chemicals in the air due to the burning autobody shop.
• 💨 The smoke was described as intense, acrid, and toxic, potentially affecting eyes, noses, and causing coughing.
• 🚫 Residents were urged to stay off the streets and remain indoors to avoid exposure to the hazardous air quality.
• 🔬 There is a plan to monitor the air for testing if the fire continues to spread.

Impact on Residents and Response

• 🏠 Approximately 31 people have been displaced from their homes and are being assisted by the Red Cross.
• 🚨 Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with the explosion or fire.
• ⏳ The fire was expected to burn through the night, requiring extensive firefighting efforts.
• 📍 The affected area is near Maple Avenue and Compton Street, not far from Newark Airport.