A massive explosion tore through an industrial park near Buenos Aires’ main airport on Friday night, unleashing towering flames and thick smoke that disrupted flights and injured at least 15 people.

Witnesses described the scene as “apocalyptic” as fireballs lit up the night sky.

A powerful blast erupted around 9pm in the industrial zone of Ezeiza, close to Ministro Pistarini International Airport. Footage showed a huge fire sweeping across several factories before a giant fireball burst upward, shaking nearby buildings.

Residents reported a deafening explosion, followed by several smaller blasts. Gates, windows, and ceilings were shattered within a three-mile radius, leaving many scrambling for cover as alarms rang out through the area.

Chemical and plastics plants involved

Local media said at least five factories caught fire. Ezeiza Mayor Gaston Granados confirmed that one was a chemical plant where warehouses ignited, while another stored plastics — both contributing to the intense blaze and heavy smoke.

Granados warned that “the explosions and fire breaking out in the different factories are huge,” adding that teams were attempting to control the situation but had not succeeded yet.

The thick plumes of smoke drifting across the area severely reduced visibility. Several incoming flights to Argentina’s main international airport were delayed or diverted as pilots struggled to land safely.

Airport officials said operations remained partially disrupted as emergency crews assessed conditions.

Injuries and emergency response

Authorities confirmed at least 15 people were taken to hospital with burns and injuries caused by shattered glass and the shockwave. Most victims were local residents caught off-guard by the sudden explosions.

The municipality said “significant explosions” were recorded, prompting hospitals across the region to activate emergency protocols. The Cuenca Alta Néstor Kirchner Hospital implemented its full contingency plan for catastrophic situations.

A large team of firefighters and civil defense officers worked through the night but struggled to contain the spreading flames.

“It is a complex fire. It will be a long fire,” said Fabian Garcia, the civil defense director for Buenos Aires province.

Over a dozen fire engines and ambulances remained on site as authorities attempted to secure the surrounding neighborhoods.