A large fire broke out early Saturday morning at a plastics manufacturing facility in Ritsona, located in the Avlida area of the Chalkida region, central Greece. Firefighters are battling the intense blaze as thick black smoke continues to spread across the area, prompting urgent public safety warnings.

According to local sources, the fire started under unknown circumstances but quickly engulfed the factory, which is situated in an industrial zone near residential neighborhoods. The presence of flammable materials at the site contributed to the rapid spread of the flames.

Emergency services responded swiftly. A total of 26 firefighters supported by 10 fire engines have been deployed to the scene. A special firefighting vehicle equipped with an aerial arm has also been dispatched to tackle the flames at high altitudes within the factory structure.

Dramatic footage from the scene shows dense plumes of black smoke rising into the sky. The burning plastic has created a suffocating smell that is detectable across a wide radius.

Shortly after 9 a.m., an emergency alert was sent to residents via the national 112 system. The message read: “Dangerous smoke in the Avlida area. Remain indoors. Close doors and windows.”

The proximity of the fire to residential zones has raised serious concerns among local authorities. The combination of industrial materials and nearby homes has placed firefighting crews on high alert.

While the fire remains active, initial assessments suggest that the outbreak began in an area with highly combustible materials, explaining both the speed and scale of the blaze.

Efforts to contain the fire continue, with fire services warning of ongoing risks due to the nature of the materials involved and the threat of toxic smoke.