Locals in Carlow town are being warned to stay indoors as emergency services battle a fire at a disused factory due to the toxic materials burning and rising into the air.
The fire at the disused Armor Salmon/Erin Foods factory beside Dr Cullen Park broke out at around 4.30pm this evening.
Gardaí are warning residents to stay indoors with the doors and windows locked and securely fastened, as the factory has an asbestos roof, which is highly toxic.
Pets should also be kept inside.
Units from Carlow and Bagenalstown fire service are currently battling the blaze.
Any residents in the area who are not at home are being told they will not be able to return to their houses for the time being.
Oak Park Road/Drive and Oakpark itself are all closed, while the roads between the Athy Road Roundabout and Dr Cullen Park Roundabout are also closed.
Diversions are in place.
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