Windsor firefighters say a 'major fire' at Sprucewood Industries, a plastics recycling facility in the city's west end, is contained but will continue to burn as late as 10 p.m.
Large flames and thick black smoke were visible for hours at the scene and loud pops could also be heard.
CTV News reporter Sacha Long says it's the largest fire she's seen in 12 years of reporting. There are some Twitter posts saying the smoke could be seen from as far away as Kingsville.
The blaze broke out in the 700 block of Sprucewood Avenue near Ojibway Parkway around 3 p.m. on Tuesday.
One firefighter reportedly experienced a heat-related injury in connection with the fire.
Windsor Mayor Eddie Francis has declared a state of emergency for the area bounded by E.C. Row Expressway to the north, Reaume Road to the south, Malden Road to the east and the Detroit River to the west.
Fire officials have issued a 'Stay in Place' order for residents. Anyone within 1.5 kilometres is asked to keep windows and doors closed and turn off their air conditioning.
For anyone who does not wish to stay in their home, reception centres are open at the South Windsor Arena and the Vollmer complex in LaSalle.
Buses are being provided for those who need transportation from Mic Mac Park in Windsor and the FreshCo in LaSalle.
Windsor police are continuing to ask motorists to avoid the area.
Ojibway Parkway between the E.C. Row Expressway and Morton Drive was closed while crews battled the fire and traffic volume remains heavy in the area.
All City of Windsor outdoor events were cancelled Tuesday night because of smoke concerns.
Francis says a city council meeting scheduled for Tuesday night has also been cancelled.
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit says about 75 per cent of the plastic at the site, including tires, is burning and the smoke could irritate eyes and lungs so people should stay indoors.
However, Windsor police say the city is not planning any mandatory evacuations because of the fire.
Any residents who need additional information are asked to contact 311, from outside Windsor dial 211 or 519-255-2489.
