A significant fire broke out on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the Moove oil factory located on Rua Campo da Ribeira, Ilha do Governador, Rio de Janeiro. The incident started around 12:36 PM and saw immediate action from the local fire department as they rushed to the scene to contain the blaze.
The scale of the fire was alarming, with thick black smoke billowing high above the factory. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the smoke from miles away, which created unease throughout various neighborhoods of the city. According to residents near the area, there were also explosions heard accompanying the flames, elevting the urgency of the firefighters' response.
Approximately 65 firefighters from 15 separate units were deployed to fight the fire. Units from Fundão, Penha, and Central fire stations arrived quickly, working tirelessly to bring the situation under control. The area around the factory has been cordoned off by the police for safety measures.
Initial reports suggest the fire originated near one of the factory's production lines. Despite the intensity of the flames, representatives from Moove have stated, "All necessary safety protocols are being applied, and so far, there are no reports of victims." This statement came as relief as the firefighters continued to work on containing the fire.
The Instituto Estadual do Ambiente (Inea) has also been called to assess potential environmental damage caused by the incident. Experts from the institute are on the scene monitoring the firefighters' operations and evaluating risks related to the smoke which has spread through urban areas.
Governor Cláudio Castro took to social media to express solidarity with those affected by the fire. He emphasized the importance of support for all workers, neighbors, and businesses impacted by this emergency situation. He reassured the public stating, "The government is committed to extinguishing the flames and will provide all necessary assistance."
Reports indicate the fire is still actively being tackled, with no firm assessment available yet on the full extent of damages or the future actions required. Firefighters are concentrating on extinguishing the flames, cooling the surrounding areas, and implementing measures to prevent the fire from spreading beyond the facility's boundaries.
There has been no impact reported on the adjacent Galeão International Airport, which is close to the incident site. The airport has confirmed through their operator's updates around 1:50 PM, indicating daily operations remain unaffected.
The Rio de Janeiro Fire Department continues to work diligently to control the situation, utilizing all resources at their disposal to mitigate the disaster. It remains to be seen what caused this large-scale fire, and authorities will conduct thorough investigations to ascertain the events leading up to it.
Firefighters remain on-site and are committed to ensuring containment of the fire with operations continuing through the evening. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops.