Dandenong South: Worker missing and two firefighters injured after blaze rips through chemical factory
A factory worker is missing after an out-of-control fire destroyed a paint factory in Melbourne's south-east. Authorities are still fighting hours after the fire broke out.
More than 120 firefighters were at the scene, along with 40 appliances, after the Dandenong South factory caught fire around noon on Friday.
It led to the closure of Superior Dr. and Hammond Rd, with authorities urging residents in the area to seek shelter 'immediately'.
A factory worker is missing after an out-of-control fire destroyed a paint factory in Melbourne's south-east
A massive factory fire has broken out in Melbourne's south-east. Image: supplied
A Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) spokeswoman said crews were still on scene battling the blaze.
Two firefighters were treated for minor injuries and two factory workers were taken to hospital.
“FRV understands that one factory worker may be missing,” the spokeswoman said.
'A warning message remains in effect.'
More than 120 firefighters were at the scene, along with 40 appliances, after the Dandenong South factory caught fire around noon on Friday.
A Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) spokeswoman said crews were still on scene battling the blaze.
Social media users have captured photos and images of thick plumes of smoke billowing from the fire.
'Explosions and fire in Dandenong South, behind Ultra Fine Foods… at 12:10. I hope everyone is doing well,” user Gavin posted on X (formerly Twitter) earlier this afternoon.
Another X user said vehicles attempted to control the fire, but the fire appeared to have spread to other buildings in the area.
Dramatic footage uploaded by 3AW captured some of the flames streaming across the building as a driver nervously stopped to film the shocking scenes.
Several fire brigades have been deployed to the scene.
Fire Rescue Victoria previously issued a watch and action warning for the suburbs of Bangholme, Dandenong South and Lyndhurst.
'The fire is not under control. Strong winds are blowing smoke south of the fire,” the alert said.
“Anyone on the industrial estate in Dandenong South around the Hammond Rd area should take shelter indoors immediately.”
Superior Dr and Hammond Rd in Dandenong South are both closed due to the fire.
The alert urges everyone in the area to close exterior doors, windows and vents and ensure heating and cooling systems are turned off.
It also said to bring pets indoors and keep the roads clear for emergency services.