'Apocalyptic' Tata Steel fire breaks out as people told to stay indoors

Eleri GriffithsBBC Wales
News imageColleen O'Leary Close up image showing a large fire burning tn the steelworks with large yellow flames. Colleen O'Leary
Fire crews are currently dealing with a blaze at Tata Steel in Port Talbot

People living near the Tata Steel plant in south Wales have been asked to stay indoors after a fire broke out.

The blaze started at the Port Talbot site around 20:00 BST and was attended by the Mid and West Wales Fire Service, with staff safely evacuated, Tata Steel confirmed.

South Wales Police said emergency services remain at the scene in Port Talbot, and were working to manage the incident.

Large plumes of smoke were visible from the site and can be seen across the surrounding area.

Kellie Evans, who was driving along the road near the fire, described the scene as "very apocalyptic".

News imageKellie Evans Wide view of a large black cloud of smoke rising in the air behind a road. The sky is dark as the sun begins to rise.Kellie Evans
Large plumes of smoke were seen rising from the site

She said she "couldn't see the flames because the sky was so black", adding that many drivers pulled over to look.

Residents have been advised to keep windows and doors closed, while motorists should avoid the area and use alternative routes where possible.

Tata Steel said the fire was not linked to the controlled demolition of an old gas holder on Wednesday evening.

The company thanked site staff and emergency services for their "prompt and professional action".