Fire Erupts At Api Refinery In Falconara, No Injuries Reported

FALCONARA MARITTIMA, Italy – A significant fire erupted at the Api refinery in Falconara Marittima late Friday evening, stirring fears among residents nearby. The incident occurred around 22:30, and witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion followed by flames reaching tens of meters high. The fire was notably visible from several kilometers away, raising concerns across the region.

The fire reportedly began in the diesel processing sector of the refinery and could have been triggered by a rupture in a high-pressure pipe or valve. Fortunately, emergency response teams, including firefighters from Jesi, Senigallia, and Ancona, managed to bring the fire under control within approximately one hour. All activities in other plant areas continued without disruption, and no injuries or intoxications were reported.

Local authorities, including Falconara’s Mayor Stefania Signorini, were quick to respond, arriving at the scene to oversee the firefighting efforts. Mayor Signorini confirmed that the fire was contained and did not extend to the fuel storage tanks. “The fire has been extinguished, and fortunately, no injuries have been reported,” she stated. “I am here with my team, civil protection, local police, and all law enforcement to ensure the situation is under control. We are working closely with the director of the refinery and have kept the relevant authorities informed.”

Authorities closed Via Flaminia due to the emergency situation, and locals experienced a strong odor of hydrocarbons permeating the area after the incident. Social media was abuzz as users shared images and footage of the incident, heightening alarm among residents but also showcasing the significantly swift response of local firefighting agencies.

According to initial assessments, the blaze resulted from operations restarting a few days prior after maintenance work had been completed within the facility. This has spurred further inquiries into the specifics of the combustible incidents. As investigation teams work on verifying the cause, there is a consensus that the issue was contained internally, and no external emergency plans were triggered since it did not affect storage tanks.

Mayor Signorini emphasized the importance of safety in her community and reiterated that all necessary measures had been enacted promptly. “The monitoring has been diligent, and we are currently conducting checks regarding what may have caused the fire. I assure the public that we are prioritizing their safety above all else.”

In light of this incident, local and regional authorities stressed the importance of thorough risk assessments for chemical facilities while reinforcing emergency response protocols. The incident at the Api refinery has raised critical discussions concerning industrial safety, environmental protections, and community health risks.

As investigations proceed, the focus remains on ensuring such a significant event does not repeat itself. All relevant agencies are expected to conduct a comprehensive review of protocols to enhance preparedness for potential future incidents.