Massive fire spreads at Baltimore recycling plant due to strong winds

On December 5, 2024, Baltimore faced a significant challenge when firefighters were deployed to combat a massive fire at the Camp Small wood recycling yard located in the Woodberry neighborhood. The fire broke out around 5:15 PM and was exacerbated by heavy winds, creating a rapidly evolving situation that threatened to spread. Fire Chief James Wallace indicated that the flames were engulfing a pile of trees and logs stacked approximately 30 feet high. In response to the danger presented by the fire, authorities acted quickly, closing parts of Interstate 83, neighboring roads, and suspending light rail services in the area to ensure public safety. Over 100 firefighters were called to the scene, and they faced multiple challenges in their efforts to contain the blaze. The wind-driven nature of the fire made it particularly difficult to manage, as the gusts fanned the flames and posed a risk of further spreading to nearby properties. By the morning of December 6, 2024, the situation had improved noticeably as the firefighters gained the upper hand against the fire, which officials stated was not yet fully under control. Despite reports of heavy smoke affecting air quality in parts of the city, no injuries were reported. To mitigate potential harm, schools in the vicinity, including Baltimore's Polytechnic Institute and Western High School, were closed. The weather conditions remained a concern, and officials warned that the strong winds could lead to hot embers igniting new fires elsewhere. City crews worked tirelessly overnight, using heavy machinery to create a containment perimeter around the fire. As a precaution, two nearby high schools were also ordered to remain closed on December 6, reflecting the seriousness of the situation. The Baltimore city fire department emphasized that the cause of the fire was still under investigation. By the afternoon of December 6, the fire was reported to be contained, allowing for the gradual reopening of closed roads including Interstate 83. Fire department spokesperson John Marsh described the inferno as the largest bonfire he had ever witnessed, a testament to the sheer scale of the incident. The recycling yard plays a crucial role in the city’s sustainability efforts, collecting, processing, and recycling tree waste removed from urban areas. The aftermath of this incident raised questions about the management of such facilities and the city’s preparedness for similar emergencies in the future.