Large fire sends up plume of black smoke near Interstate 10 in Phoenix

PHOENIX — A large fire at a recycling business sent up a huge black plume of smoke over the Phoenix area on Tuesday.

The fire — which was still smoldering Wednesday morning — burned near 36th Street and University Drive, about one mile from Interstate 10 and just across the Salt River from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. No flights were delayed.

3 alarm industrial fire still burning in Phoenix. Being told it will likely burn into tomorrow morning. @KTAR923 pic.twitter.com/mEZ6lXTBVb

— Cooper Rummell (@KNXCooper) March 23, 2016

Phoenix Fire Department crews closed off streets surrounding the Arizona Pacific Pulp and Paper company and took a defensive stance as 20-30 mph winds fanned the large flames.

Something is on fire at/or near the #Phoenix airport. Huge flames. #PHX pic.twitter.com/nL641tRQjj

— Grifter (@Grifter801) March 22, 2016

Huge fire in Phoenix. Taken from the 202. #Phoenix #fire #phoenixfire pic.twitter.com/j6G5yr6ptB

— Megan Bridgeman (@MeganBridgeman_) March 23, 2016

Phoenix Fire Department officials said lots of cardboard was on fire outside the facility and throwing up large amounts of black smoke.

The fire was originally classified as a three-alarm, meaning the fire was quite large, before officials downgraded it to a two-alarm.

The fire broke out about 4:30 p.m. Tuesday and authorities said its cause isn’t immediately known.

About 150 firefighters were on the scene, scaling back as the fire continued to burn itself out throughout Tuesday night. By Wednesday morning, the fire was 100 percent contained and crews were working to mop up hot spots.

Traffic was expected to be slow in the area, especially as the city geared up for the Tuesday rush hour. Drivers were urged to avoid the area if possible.

There were no injuries.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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