A fire encompassing two factories in Sderot, one belonging to Strauss and another to Tapugan, led to a feared ammonia leak which was later ruled out, Israel's Fire and Rescue Authority announced on Monday morning.
The Fire and Rescue Authority also stated that rescue forces were on the scene. Two firefighters were lightly injured and evacuated, while a bystander was also lightly injured and treated for smoke inhalation.
"There are currently 13 fire crews working at the scene, with assistance from forces from other districts, and additional forces are on their way to the scene," the Fire and Rescue Authority announced. "Firefighters are continuing to work to treat the leak and the main areas of the fire."
Later, the Fire and Rescue Authority announced that there were 53 crews working on the scene. There were also reports that two planes had been dispatched to help control the fire.
Israel Police also announced that their forces were on the scene, stating that they were working to block roads and direct traffic in order to protect the public.
The Sderot municipality instructed residents of the nearby neighborhood to remain indoors and keep their windows shut.
The Environmental Protection Ministry confirmed that there was no risk of a hazardous chemical leak, stating that it was in contact with rescue forces on the scene.
Israel Railways stated that, due to the fires, trains would not be stopping at the Sderot train station.
Ynet reported that the fire had first begun on Sunday afternoon, but was not extinguished fully at the time, and returned on Monday morning larger than before.
Strauss confirms no injuries in fire, says snack production continuing as planned
"A fire broke out in a warehouse complex in the Shaar Negev industrial area near Sderot, where the Strauss salty snack warehouse is also located," a Strauss spokesperson stated.
"The warehouse has been evacuated, there are no injuries, and there are no hazardous materials in the warehouse. The salty snack factory is far from the fire area. Production is continuing as usual at this time, so no shortage of products is expected."
Strauss, also known as Strauss-Elite, is one of Israel's largest food companies, while Tapugan manufactures frozen potato products.