FORKLIFT MISHAP AT NEW YORK WAREHOUSE TRIGGERS CHEMICAL SPILL, FIRE, AND SHELTER-IN-PLACE ALERT. (PHOTO).

 Forklift mishap at New York warehouse triggers chemical spill, fire, and shelter-in-place alert

A chemical leak and fire erupted Tuesday at a beauty products warehouse in suburban Yonkers, New York, likely triggered by a forklift accident, authorities said, prompting a shelter-in-place warning for nearby residents. The incident briefly disrupted commuter train service ahead of the evening rush.

The situation began around noon at the facility along the Hudson River just north of the Bronx. Fire officials said a forklift likely punctured a container while moving products in the tightly packed warehouse, causing a chemical to leak. When firefighters arrived, a large cloud of white smoke was already escaping the building, and within an hour, the leak ignited a fire. Residents in surrounding blocks were told to stay indoors, and streets were closed to traffic and pedestrians due to the “hazmat situation involving bleach.” Two people with pre-existing health conditions were evacuated, and several firefighters sustained minor injuries during the hours-long response. Wind carried much of the smoke toward the river, helping crews contain the blaze by late afternoon. Train service, halted during the incident, resumed about two hours later.