JOHOR BARU: Premises believed to be an oil storage facility in Masai have been destroyed by flames, sending thick black smoke into the sky.
The incident started at around 12.30pm on Jalan Kempas, Taman Megah Ria and has caused thick smog visible even from the Eastern Dispersal Link Highway, some 8km away.
The fire spread rapidly due to strong winds and broke out less than 50m from a nearby residential area.
Witnesses reported small explosions, and several barrels believed to be filled with oil were seen exploding.
Efforts are ongoing to extinguish the flames, and an official statement will be made available by the Fire and Rescue Department soon.
Firefighters and police at the scene urged onlookers and residents to evacuate their homes and move to a safer location.
Residents in the area have expressed concerns for their safety, as the electricity supply in the affected residential area has been cut off to prevent further incidents.
