A major fireworks warehouse fire in Janakkala, Finland has been contained but explosions continue to pose risks. The fire broke out Wednesday evening at Pyrokratia Oy's storage facility in Kanta-Häme region, sending fireworks shooting into the sky during initial stages.
Police are investigating the incident as suspected arson and workplace accident. Authorities established a 250-meter exclusion zone around the site that remains active. Approximately 60 residents within one kilometer were evacuated Wednesday but have since been cleared to return.
The rescue department confirmed Thursday morning that the situation no longer poses widespread danger to the broader area. The fire continues to smolder and occasionally flare up with explosions. Rescue chief Olli Heikkilä said it could take up to 24 hours for the fire and explosions to completely subside.
Two company employees sustained injuries during the incident. Their current condition remains undisclosed. The Accident Investigation Board decided not to open a separate investigation into the fire.
Emergency services cannot approach the fire site until it's declared safe. Authorities are monitoring the situation using drone equipment from both rescue services and police, along with the company's fixed surveillance cameras.
Finland has strict regulations governing fireworks storage and sales, particularly following past incidents involving pyrotechnics. The timing is notable as Finland's fireworks season typically peaks around New Year's celebrations, raising questions about inventory levels and safety protocols during off-peak periods.
Local residents expressed relief that the immediate danger has passed but remain concerned about ongoing explosions. The remote location of the storage facility, approximately 20 kilometers from Janakkala's main population center Turenki, helped minimize potential impact on residential areas.
Police will begin detailed investigations once the area is declared completely safe. The company's management has not yet commented publicly on the incident or potential causes.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of storing hazardous materials in rural Finnish communities. While remote locations reduce risks to population centers, they can complicate emergency response times and access to specialized equipment.
The fireworks industry in Finland operates under strict seasonal regulations, with most sales concentrated around New Year celebrations. This mid-year incident raises questions about storage safety protocols during non-peak periods when maintenance and oversight might differ.
Authorities maintain the reduced 250-meter exclusion zone will likely remain in effect through Friday as the situation continues to stabilize.