A massive fire broke out at an old paper mill in United State’s Morris on Tuesday. The cause of the accident is yet not known but it has prompted evacuation orders from officials. According to Associated Press, at least 5000 people have been safely evacuated till now.

This comes weeks after another explosion and massive fire was reported at a chemical plant near Rockton along the Wisconsin border. It had also forced the evacuation of hundreds of homes in the region.

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While the Morris fire continues for the second consecutive day causing heavy damage, here is what we know so far.

What is the exact location of the fire?

The fire occurred at a paper mill in Minnesota’s Morris. It exactly took place at a warehouse where large batteries are stored. Helicopter video from the area showed gray smoke billowing from a building that could barely be seen through the haze, reported AP.

How severe is the fire?

According to the alert sent by authorities to the residents nearby and, the fire is rated severe and poses a significant threat to life and property.

All the residents in the 900 block of Benton, Douglas, Armstrong, and East Street have been ordered to evacuate at the earliest according to a Nixle alert from the Grundy County Emergency Management Agency.

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What caused the fire?

The cause of the fire has yet not been determined, the evacuation and investigation are underway.

Why is the fire continuing?

Nick Doefler, a spokesman for the fire agency that is conducting evacuations, told AP that what makes the fire more complicated is the presence of a battery inside the premises. Such fires cannot be extinguished with water. 

“You can’t spray water on it, it’s an explosive hazard. We are waiting for additional resources to figure out how to fight it,” he said on Tuesday.

What’s the current status of the fire?

At the time of writing this article, the fire and evacuation process is on its second consecutive day. So far, 5000 people have been evacuated from in and around the area. 

The evacuation process is expected to end at 9 pm (EST) on Wednesday but is likely to be extended.