Lockdown lifted after toxic cloud scare in Spain

A lockdown has lifted for some 150,000 Spanish residents after a fire at an industrial warehouse released a dangerous cloud of chlorine.

Residents in the town of Vilanova i la Geltru and four surrounding communities southwest of Barcelona were told to stay indoors for hours after the fire.

Locals were told to keep windows and doors closed early on Saturday as a preventative measure as firefighters battled the blaze at the plant, which contained up to 70 tonnes of pool cleaning tablets, the local civil protection unit said.

According to newspaper El Pais, the tablets reacted with the water used to extinguish the fire, creating a toxic cloud.

The lockdown was lifted around 12.15pm local time (8.15pm AEST) on Saturday, though authorities did not rule out further restrictions as they continued to monitor the situation.

Residents were urged to remain cautious, especially those with higher health risks, such as the elderly and people with pre-existing conditions.

The fire was brought under control but seven people needed medical treatment, including two in a serious condition and one in critical condition.

The cause of the fire was initially unknown.

The irritant gas released in the air can react with the water in the mucous membranes found in the eyes, nose, throat and lungs to form hydrochloric acid, which burns sensitive tissue.

with Reuters