A massive fire has devastated a Sydney storage facility, leaving customers anxiously waiting to learn whether their belongings survived. The blaze broke out at Storage King Moorebank on Governor Macquarie Dr in Chipping Norton just before 2pm on Wednesday.
Firefighting Efforts Continue
About 80 firefighters and 20 fire trucks remained at the scene on Thursday as crews continued to battle the blaze. At the height of the emergency, Fire and Rescue NSW deployed about 130 firefighters and 22 fire trucks to combat the flames. By 5.40pm, the complex’s main building had been destroyed.
Storage King told 7NEWS.com.au the facility had been heavily impacted and warned customers they may not be able to access their storage units for several days. “Storage King has contacted all customers to alert them to the fire and let them know that the entire site is closed,” a spokesperson said. “Our team does not have access to the site so we can only tell customers what we are told by emergency services and what we can see from the ground and from aerial footage.”
Customer Access Delayed
The company said it was too early to determine how many individual storage units had been affected. “It is very difficult to ascertain when the site will be handed back by emergency services to Storage King, and when it will be safe for customers to gain access, but it is likely to be several days at a minimum,” the spokesperson added. “This will be heavily dependent on expert advice about the extent of damage and safety hazards, and any work required to make the site safe.”
Two Storage King staff members were on site when the fire broke out and helped customers evacuate safely. About 30 people, including workers from neighbouring businesses, were evacuated as the fire spread. Witnesses told 7NEWS they heard several explosions before the fire rapidly spread.
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Warnings
The cause of the blaze remains under investigation. Fire and Rescue NSW urged nearby residents to keep their doors and windows closed because of the toxic smoke, while motorists were advised to avoid the area as road closures remained in place.
Storage King encouraged customers requiring assistance to contact its Customer Care Team on 1800 888 200, saying it would continue providing updates as more information became available. “We know this is a stressful time for our customers and that it will take some time to get the level of detail they need right now,” the spokesperson added. “We appreciate their patience as we gather information about their individual circumstances.”
