Dozens of Norfolk County firefighters work to extinguish massive fire in extreme heat

Norfolk County fire crews on the scene of a hog barn fire near Simcoe, Ont., Tuesday morning. (Submitted by Norfolk County Fire Department)

Flames billow from a hog barn near Simcoe, Ont., Tuesday as firefighters battle a blaze that left at least 20,000 hogs dead.

Norfolk County firefighters responded to a call near Highway 3 early Tuesday morning around 6:45 a.m. to find a hog barn on fire, approximately 200,000 square feet in size.

About 40 firefighters are on the scene at the farm between Simcoe and Dehli from eight fire stations, said Norfolk County deputy fire chief James Robertson in a statement Tuesday.

“The property owner is insured. Due to active fire conditions, the investigation into the cause has not yet begun, but is not being treated as suspicious,” the statement read.

Norfolk County Ontario Provincial Police are asking the public to avoid the area, and watch for emergency services vehicles on the scene. Highway 3 is closed between Charlotteville East Quarter Line and Windham East Quarter Line Road, police said.

Poor air quality in area

Grand Erie Public Health issued a statement stating smoke is affecting air quality in parts of the Simcoe area due to the fire.

“Combined with the current heat and already poor air quality conditions, residents may notice increased smoke and haze in the area,” GEPH said. “The public may notice smoky conditions, including the smell of smoke, along with reduced visibility.”

GEPH is asking local residents to keep windows and doors closed to reduce exposure when conditions are smoking. They suggest limiting time outdoors, avoiding strenuous physical activity, and using air conditioning or air filtration when possible.

Those experiencing challenges breathing or concerning symptoms should seek medical attention.

OPP and Norfolk County Fire Department will provide more updates as they become available.