A major emergency is unfolding in Port Adelaide this morning as a hazardous chemical fire has triggered an urgent, immediate evacuation order for local residents and businesses.

The South Australian Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS) was called to a structure fire on Moonta Road, where stockpiles of sulphur are currently burning. Officials have described the incident as "extremely dangerous," warning that the blaze is producing massive volumes of highly toxic smoke.

Immediate Threat and Evacuation Zone

Anyone located within a one-kilometer radius of the Moonta Road site has been instructed to flee the area immediately. Fire authorities report that the toxic smoke plume is drifting in a south to south-easterly direction. Those nearby who are outside the immediate evacuation zone are strongly advised to close all windows and doors, turn off air conditioning, and avoid the area entirely.

A massive emergency response is currently underway, with approximately 15 fire appliances on the scene. This includes specialized aerial platforms and hazardous materials (HAZMAT) units working to suppress the chemical fire. The South Australian Ambulance Service has confirmed that one individual has already been transported to the Royal Adelaide Hospital for treatment.

Residents Describe Panic

The sudden evacuation has caused significant anxiety among local residents. Chris Baxter, who lives in close proximity to the blaze, described the chaotic moments after receiving the emergency alert.

"My wife called me in a panic," Baxter said. "She was terrified. The warning was clear: grab your medication, grab the dogs, and get out right away. We live right across from a petrol station, so the fear of what could happen if this spreads is deeply worrying."

Emergency services remain on the scene and are expected to battle the toxic blaze for several hours. Residents are urged to monitor emergency broadcasts and strictly follow all directions from first responders.