PARKERSBURG, W.Va. — Firefighters continue working at the site of a massive warehouse fire in Wood County after officials confirmed the blaze has been contained, though crews expect to remain on scene for several more days.
The fire broke out at the Peoples Cartage warehouse over the weekend before reigniting the following day. More than two dozen emergency agencies responded to help battle the fire, while heavy equipment has been used to open portions of the building so firefighters can reach remaining hot spots.
Governor Patrick Morrisey declared a state of emergency for Wood County, allowing additional state resources to assist local responders. Officials said no employees or emergency personnel were injured.
The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection continues monitoring air quality, while federal officials are evaluating any potential impacts to the nearby Little Kanawha River. Authorities said a firewall inside the warehouse helped prevent the fire from spreading into an area containing battery storage, although plastics stored in the building raised environmental concerns.
Road closures remain in place around the warehouse as investigators work to determine what caused the fire. The Salvation Army and Red Cross have also been assisting first responders with food, water and other support during the ongoing response.
