Massive fire forces evacuation and shelter orders in Pennsylvania industrial complex

In Pennsylvania, an extensive fire erupted at SPS Technologies, a metal manufacturing company located in Jenkintown, Montgomery County, around 9:30 p.m. on Monday night, February 17, 2025. Witnesses reported an explosion shortly before the blaze spread, prompting immediate evacuation procedures. A total of 68 fire crews responded to the developing crisis, working tirelessly through the night to combat the flames. As the fire continued into Tuesday, officials faced concerns about toxic smoke affecting the surrounding area, resulting in a mandatory shelter-in-place order for local residents. Authorities closed schools across several nearby districts, including Abington, Jenkintown, and Cheltenham, to ensure the safety of students and staff while the situation was assessed. The air quality was being monitored by Hazmat crews due to the presence of chemicals within the facility, leading local police to advise all businesses within a one-mile radius to remain closed until it was deemed safe. Emergency management officials confirmed that all 50 employees who were on the site at the time of the incident successfully evacuated, and no injuries were reported. Governor Josh Shapiro expressed gratitude to the first responders for their efforts in ensuring everyone's safety, while the Department of Environmental Protection began coordinating efforts with local hazardous materials teams to monitor any potential environmental concerns posed by the fire. Despite extensive firefighting efforts, the aged structure of the SPS Technologies facility created challenges in containing and extinguishing the blaze. Officials warned residents to minimize outdoor activities in case of air contamination from smoke and particulates that were spreading across the area. As of Tuesday morning, fire crews continued to apply water to the structure in an attempt to fully extinguish the fire and control any further threats to public safety.