3-alarm fire causes explosions at warehouse

HazMat called in to clean up North Harris County warehouse fire scene

HOUSTON – A three-alarm fire tore through a north Harris County warehouse, sparking explosions inside the building Friday.

The blaze started around 2 a.m. at the building at 15025 Yarberry Street at Hodgkins Street. Fire investigators said the metal building housed several auto repair shops and dozens of cars.  The buildings and several cars were heavily damaged or destroyed.

Crews had trouble putting water on the fire, according to Assistant Chief Jackie Metcalfe of the Aldine Fire Department.

"We had an issue establishing a water supply.  The nearest water supply is a mile away.  That was a big issue for us," Metcalfe said.

Metcalfe said flammable materials inside the warehouse caused intense flames and explosions as they worked to put out the massive flames.

"We had several small explosions -- gas tanks, tire explosions. Of course, you're going to find that at any automobile fire," Metcalfe said.

It took more than three hours to put out the fire.  Crews remained on the scene working on hot spots hours later.

Hazardous Materials crews were called in to help clean up oil that spilled during the fire.

No one was hurt. The cause is under investigation.

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