Chattanooga, August 5, 2025
News Summary
The Chattanooga Fire Department quickly responded to a tire fire at the Buzzi Unicem USA cement plant in Signal Mountain. Upon receiving 911 calls about thick smoke, the department used aerial and ground efforts to control the blaze, which is now under control. Local residents expressed concerns due to the visible smoke, and an investigation into the cause is underway. Additionally, the area is under a heat advisory, complicating firefighting efforts amidst ongoing severe weather conditions.
Chattanooga Fire Department Responds to Tire Fire at Cement Plant in Signal Mountain
Chattanooga officials are addressing a significant incident involving a tire fire at the Buzzi Unicem USA cement plant located on Suck Creek Road in Signal Mountain. The Chattanooga Fire Department (CFD) received multiple 911 calls about visible smoke at around 2:26 p.m. on Monday. Firefighters immediately mobilized to the scene, where they faced heavy smoke along their route.
Upon arrival, the CFD employed aerial master streams and multiple ground hose lines to effectively control the blaze. Currently, the fire is under control, but the fire department continues to monitor and manage hot spots with the aid of drone pilots from their Special Operations Division. The presence of thick smoke was a notable sight in the area, prompting widespread concern among local residents.
A spokesperson for Buzzi Unicem USA indicated that the company’s infrared technology was instrumental in promptly alerting personnel to the fire’s outbreak, enabling a rapid response. Although the fire has been contained, investigation into its cause is still ongoing, according to the plant manager.
The Tennessee area, including Chattanooga, is currently experiencing a heat advisory issued by the National Weather Service, reporting “feels-like temperatures” up to 107 degrees due to high humidity and temperature levels. The weather overall remains cloudy, with temperatures fluctuating between 77 to 85 degrees. These conditions may have affected both the firefighting efforts and the safety of local residents.
In addition to the fire emergency, some roads in Chattanooga are closed due to severe weather conditions from prior events, including downed wires and flooding. This backdrop of weather challenges, coupled with previously issued severe weather warnings for tornadoes and thunderstorms earlier in the week, has compounded the situation for emergency responders and city officials.
Key Details
- Incident: Tire fire at Buzzi Unicem USA cement plant.
- Time of Dispatch: Approximately 2:26 p.m., Monday.
- Response Actions: Aerial and ground firefighting efforts deployed.
- Current Status: Fire under control; monitoring of hot spots ongoing.
- Investigation: Cause of fire remains under investigation.
- Weather Advisory: Heat advisory in effect for Chattanooga.
- Road Conditions: Some roads closed due to weather-related hazards.
Background Context
The incident at the Buzzi Unicem USA plant is part of wider concerns for residents regarding the safety and operational practices at industrial facilities in the area. Fires involving industrial materials, such as tires, can pose significant hazards, generating toxic smoke and environmental concerns.
Emergency response teams are trained to manage such incidents, but the recent severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and wind, have complicated their efforts. Historically, cities like Chattanooga face challenges during peak heat seasons and periods of severe weather, which may affect firefighting capabilities and public safety measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the tire fire at the cement plant?
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, and no specific details have been released yet.
How is the Chattanooga Fire Department responding?
The CFD has achieved control of the fire using aerial master streams and continues to monitor hot spots with drone assistance.
Are there any health concerns related to the smoke produced by the fire?
Yes, the smoke from a tire fire can be hazardous. Residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid exposure until the situation is fully resolved.
What are local weather conditions?
Chattanooga is currently experiencing a heat advisory, with temperatures feeling like 107 degrees due to humidity.
Are any roads closed in the area?
Yes, certain roads are closed due to severe weather damages, such as downed wires and flooding.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Tire Fire Location | Buzzi Unicem USA Cement Plant, Signal Mountain |
| Response Time | 2:26 p.m. on the day of the incident |
| Status of Fire | Under control, monitoring ongoing |
| Investigation Status | Under investigation |
| Weather Advisory | Heat advisory in effect |
| Road Conditions | Some closures due to severe weather |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Brush Fire Causes Evacuations in Kaanapali, Maui
Manhunt Underway After Fatal Shooting in Anaconda Bar
Flash Flooding Causes Major Disruptions in Queens
Chattanooga to Showcase Inna Beker’s Glass Art Exhibition
Chattanooga Launches Innovative SMART Corridor Project
Senate Confirms New CDC Director Amid Controversy
Chattanooga Police Officer Resigns Over Salary Issues
Passengers Evacuated from American Airlines Flight in Denver
Historic Flash Flooding Devastates Ruidoso, New Mexico
Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Lorain Police Officer in Ambush Attack
Additional Resources
- The Weather Channel: Chattanooga Weather
- Local 3 News: Chattanooga Road Closures Due to Severe Weather
- Times Free Press: Severe Weather Threatens Chattanooga Area
- Nooga Today: Winter Weather Forecast for Chattanooga
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Industrial Fire
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
