Ammonia Leak Threatens Newport After Pacific Seafood Plant Fire A fire at Pacific Seafood's plant in Newport has prompted a wide‑area evacuation due to the possible release of ammonia fumes, with city officials urging residents to stay indoors and wear masks. A blaze at Pacific Seafood's processing facility in the coastal town of Newport, Oregon, sparked concerns that ammonia fumes might have leaked into the surrounding area. Ammonia Fume Evacuation Order IssuedThe incident, which began early this morning, forced city officials to issue a Level 3 evacuation for residents living within a one‑mile radius of the plant, the highest alert level used in the state's emergency response framework. In response to the fire and the potential chemical hazard, firefighters battled the blaze while simultaneously treating the scene for any ammonia contamination that could threaten the health of the community.City authorities urged Newport's 10,000‑strong population to stay indoors, but advised individuals who needed to venture outside to wear a mask. As the fire raged, Emergency Dispatch crews sprayed the building down and helped keep the smoke from spreading beyond the immediate site. By mid‑morning, the city had expanded the evacuation zone from its original half‑mile radius in the commercial Bayfront area to a full one‑mile perimeter, which now encapsulated both commercial and residential neighborhoods.Police, sheriff's deputies and county medical teams set up a shelter at Sam Case Elementary School to receive evacuees. Major thoroughfares, such as US 20 from Harney Street West to US 101, were shut down to keep people clear of the hazardous area. Pacific Seafood's spokesperson confirmed that none of its employees were injured and that all workers had been accounted for.Pacific Seafood Suspends Plant OperationsThe company suspended operations at the plant and pledged to collaborate fully with first responders as they evaluated the incident. Experts noted that exposure to high concentrations of ammonia can cause significant irritation to the skin, eyes, throat and lungs, and it can trigger coughing, burns and other respiratory symptoms; people with asthma or other pulmonary conditions are at higher risk.The company's statement emphasized that the facility was under investigation, and police were monitoring the smoke plume, which residents described as dense enough to obscure the roadside. Since the incident, local residents and tourists have been advised to use caution when leaving the shelter and to avoid exposure to the lingering fumes. The investigation into the cause of the fire and the potential chemical release remains ongoing, with authorities promising to provide further updates as new information becomes available.Fire Disrupts Newport Coastal TourismThe incident has taken an unprecedented toll on Newport's local economy, which relies heavily on its coastal tourism industry. Although the city's peak tourist season was not in full swing, the shutdown of key attractions and the closure of several streets have already disrupted business operations. City leaders are working closely with regional partners to ensure public safety while maintaining the community's resilience.More details will be disclosed as the investigation proceeds and additional information about any possible injuries or environmental impact becomes known. The story continues to develop, with updates expected from city officials, the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office and the Oregon Health Department. Residents are urged to keep up with official communications and to heed all evacuation orders and safety guidelines until the situation is declared secure.