In northern New Jersey, a huge chemical fire erupted late at night into Saturday morning. The thick smoke was strong enough to be seen on radars and smelled in New York City.

Officials stated that fire at Majestic Industries in Passaic and Qualco’s chemical plant in Passaic spread quickly to other buildings, and threatened their destruction.

Firefighter hose water freezes in cold weather, which makes it dangerous for firefighters.

Hector Lora of Passaic, Mayor said to NorthJersey.com that there had been “bad fires”, but this one is “the worst I have ever seen.”

Justin Johnson, a security guard told WCBS TV that he was checking water pressure alone when he noticed smoke from a tall tower-shaped smokestack. He was unsure what to do but called fire department when alarms started going off.

Officials said that the fire broke out in plastics and pallets buildings, however, Fire Chief Patrick Trentacost stated that the area where the majority of the chlorine had been stored seemed to be under control.

Nearby residents were asked to close their windows. However, they weren’t required to flee. Officials stated that air quality was acceptable and would be closely monitored.

But some people fled.

“It’s worrying. Joel Heredia, WBCS-TV’s executive producer said: “You don’t really know what’s coming.”

Officials said that one firefighter had been injured by the debris and was transported to hospital. Officials said he was fine, but other firefighters fell due to the slippery conditions.