Overview
- A large fire at Mid City Scrap in Westport, which erupted Monday, sent thick smoke visible from Fall River and New Bedford Harbor and shut Route 6 between Route 88 and Gifford Road.
- By Tuesday afternoon, firefighters said the scrap pile was no longer smoking, and Route 6 reopened to traffic.
- Because scrap piles burn mixed materials that can create dense smoke, the Board of Health urged nearby residents to close windows and turn off air conditioners as MassDEP tested the air.
- The EPA later found no air-quality concerns, easing worries about health effects from the plume.
- Officials reported no injuries or evacuations, and investigators continue to probe the cause as crews maintain a fire watch due to recent dry, windy weather.