Harrowing pictures and footage from social media showed billowing smoke and flames reaching into the sky over Llangennech. A local councillor has said a major incident has been declared as a result of the fire. Police have cordoned off roads, and advised people to avoid the area.
Dyfed-Powys Police Superintendent Ross Evans said: “This is a fast-moving situation, which has been declared a major incident.
“There are a significant number of emergency services personnel at the scene, and an evacuation zone has been put in place.
“Officers are in contact with people within that area asking them to leave their homes, and we urge people to comply with officers’ requests to ensure a swift and efficient evacuation.
“We are working closely with our colleagues at British Transport Police, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Carmarthenshire Council, and Natural Resources Wales to bring the incident to a safe conclusion.”
As a result of the blaze, an 800 metre evacuation zone was put in place.
Nearby residents were told to convene at Bryn School and Llangennech Community Centre.
One Twitter user noted they spotted “at least 14 Fire Engines, 4 Ambulances, 12 Police Cars/Vans.”
Reaction came in on social media, with many sending their best wishes to the firefighters and residents.
One Twitter user said: “Well I hope everyone down at Llangennech is ok. Not a nice thing to see.”
Another added: “It looks like a train on fire.
“Definitely fuel burning earlier – could smell it from well over a mile away.”
