Authorities have upgraded their warnings over a major factory fire, which is sending plumes of toxic smoke over Melbourne’s west.
Emergency services were called to Swann Drive in Derrimut about 11.20am today over reports an explosion had sparked a blaze.
More than 50 firefighter trucks are responding to the out-of-control fire.
“At this time there have been no reports of injuries and it is believed everyone inside the premises evacuated safely,” police said.
Victoria Emergency upgraded their advice warning to a Watch and Act, urging anyone in Albion, Braybrook, Brooklyn, Derrimut, Laverton North, Sunshine, Sunshine West, Tottenham and Truganina to take shelter indoors immediately.
“Wind is blowing toxic smoke towards the East across Derrimut,” Victoria Emergency wrote in its latest update.
Anyone at home in the area is advised to close all doors, windows and vents and ensure any heating or cooling systems are turned off.
Anyone not at home is told not to return.
Aerial vision shows burnt gas bottles at the site as the fire continues to grow.
The flames forced a fence to fall and is inching dangerously close to a grassed area.
Heavy traffic delays are being felt around the area as Swann Drive and all outbound lanes on the Western Freeway were forced to close.
Motorists are urged to avoid the area and keep their car ventilation on recirculate and windows up.