There are reports that several people have been killed in a major fire and explosion at a chemical plant in North Carolina this evening.
The incident happened at the West Pharmaceuticals plant in the town of Kinston. Television pictures showed the factory and nearby wood on fire and a huge black cloud of smoke pouring from the scene.
No death toll was given, but many ambulances are at the scene and media reports said there were believed to be many casualties.
More than ten patients have been taken to the Lenoir Memorial Hospital in Kinston, five of whom are in a critical condition, according to US TV network, Fox News.
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Kinston is about 480 kilometers south of Washington in central North Carolina.