Chlorine Warehouse Fire Near Barcelona Prompts Lockdown

A major fire at a chemical warehouse storing 70 tons of chlorine in Vilanova i la Geltrú, near Barcelona, Spain, forced authorities to order approximately 160,000 residents and tourists across five towns to stay indoors for several hours due to a toxic chlorine cloud. The blaze, suspected to have started from a lithium battery early Saturday, released hazardous fumes, triggered emergency mobile alerts, and led to train suspensions, roadblocks, and event cancellations. Although no casualties were reported, a small number of individuals experienced breathing difficulties. Firefighters brought the fire under control by midday, after which the lockdown was lifted as the toxic cloud dissipated. Authorities highlighted the challenge of extinguishing burning chlorine and continue to monitor air quality in the affected area. Residents were initially advised to keep windows and doors closed until further notice.