Johor Bahru: A fire broke out at an oil storage facility in southern Malaysia on Saturday, destroying approximately 60% of the premises. The fire sent black plumes over 100 meters (328 feet) into the air in Johor state's Johor Bahru District, state news agency Bernama reported.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Johor Fire and Rescue Department Operations Centre stated that preliminary estimates indicate about 60% destruction. Strong winds contributed to the fire spreading to a disused waste oil storage area. Several explosions were also heard, causing alarm among residents.
The incident resulted in damage to 15 vehicles, but there were no casualties reported. Residents in the vicinity were ordered to evacuate as a safety measure. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined. However, accounts from workers suggest it originated in the recycling and oil storage areas. Zone I deputy chief Senior Fire Superintendent II Rosfarawadi Ismani Ismail noted that residents would be allowed to return home once the area is confirmed safe.