© Trevor Pugh
According to Allegheny County Emergency Services, the fire broke out at Weatherford Engineered Chemistry in the 100 block of Leetsdale Industrial Drive.
The company is involved in the development of oil and gas production.
The fire has since spread to a second building nearby. Firefighters have taken up a defensive position and are watering down six other buildings.
Officials say that the two chemicals involved - ammonium persulfate and sodium chlorite - are inhalation contact hazards.
As a result, an evacuation order has been issued for all homes on Washington Road in Leetsdale. About 75 homes are involved in the evacuation and residents are being ushered to the Quaker Valley High School gymnasium.
Hazmat was called to the scene and officials are going door-to-door.
Nearby Buncher and Leetsdale Business Parks are also being evacuated as a precaution.
Three people were taken to Sewickley Valley Hospital, but their injures are not believed to be life-threatening.
One firefighter is also being evaluated.
Thick black smoke could be seen from parts of Beaver County and was even picked up on radar.
Ambridge, Aliquippa and Hopewell elementary schools have also been advised to keep students inside due to the smoke.
Hopewell High School officials have canceled all extracurricular activities after school today. They also did not send any students to the ROTC program.
Officials are asking motorists to avoid Route 65 in the Leetsdale area at this time.
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