Thousands of people were forced to leave their homes in Richmond, Indiana, on Wednesday, due to the dangerous toxic cloud from the fire that broke out in an abandoned factory where large quantities of plastics are stored.

A huge cloud of black smoke has covered the skies over Richmond, as seen in images from the scene of the fire.

“This is an industrial facility for the collection of plastics and other materials for recycling or resale”, Richmond Mayor Dave Snow said at a news conference.

Despite the mobilization of strong firefighting forces, it may take several dayss before the fire goes out. Indiana State Fire Chief Steve Jones warned of the threat of the toxic cloud, and as a precaution authorities ordered an evacuation within 800 meters of the fire. Hence, about 2,000 people were forced to leave their homes, according to local authorities.

The mayor of Richmond emphasized that the industrial facility had been deemed dangerous, and that the owner had not complied with the instructions of the authorities. “The owner of this business he is absolutely responsible… Due to negligence and irresponsibility, he endangered human lives,” he emphasized.

Two months ago, thousands of people were forced to leave their homes in Ohio because of a fire that broke out after a train carrying chemicals derailed.