A massive fire tore through the Agri Star meat processing facility in Postville early Tuesday, sending towering plumes of smoke into the sky as firefighters from across northeast Iowa rushed to contain the fast-moving blaze. Officials have urged the public to stay away from the area while emergency crews battle the fire.

Numerous fire departments responded to the scene and are working together to bring the flames under control at the sprawling processing plant.

The blaze erupted during the early morning hours at the Agri Star Meat and Poultry Plant, the largest employer in Allamakee County, triggering a major emergency response.

As the fire continues to burn, smoke has been carried toward neighboring Fayette County, where authorities warn it may reduce visibility, particularly in and around the Clermont area.

Officials are asking both motorists and local residents to avoid the vicinity if possible and to exercise caution as firefighters and other emergency personnel remain on the scene.

Authorities have not reported any injuries, and the cause of the fire has not yet been determined or released.

Agri Star is among the world’s largest kosher meat processing facilities. The company was purchased by Mr. Hershey Friedman in 2009 from the Rubashkin family and serves as a major employer for many Orthodox Jewish residents of the Postville community.

{Matzav.com}