© Matthew M. Burke/Stars and StripesFire at a hazardous materials building, Kadena Air Base,
The blaze, which began around 8:40 a.m. at a building south of Kadena's airfield in the central part of the base, was extinguished at approximately 2 p.m., according to statements and Facebook posts from the 18th Wing. Thick plumes of smoke smothered areas near the fire and closed off roads as firefighters worked to get it under control.
Authorities evacuated an area 500 feet upwind and 2,000 feet downwind of the site.
Later, the wing announced that the fire had released chlorine gas particles, prompting medical authorities to encourage anyone who experienced breathing or vision problems to seek treatment.
"Those individuals experiencing eye irritation, runny nose, or throat irritation should report to the Kadena Medical Group," a statement said. "Those with shortness of breath or coughing should call 098-934-5911 or proceed directly to the [U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa] Emergency Department."
Japanese citizens were instructed to seek medical care at the nearest off-base medical facility.
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