Air quality concerns raised after Tacoma scrapyard fire sends smoke billowing into sky



TACOMA -- A metal scrapyard caught fire in Tacoma early Monday, sending huge plumes of smoke billowing into the air.

Video showed large plumes of smoke that could be seen throughout the Tacoma area.

Firefighters were called to Simon Metals, located at 2202 E. River St.

Firefighters said the fire began about 2 a.m. Monday and has since been contained.

Investigators are working to determine what started the fire and authorities warned people to avoid inhaling fumes if they were in the air.

The Port of Tacoma said all terminal operations were suspended until the air quality improves.