The fire started just before 4:00 a.m. and destroyed a wing of the factory. A short time earlier, an explosion had occurred.

According to reports, five female employees were at the site of the explosion. Three have been found dead, while the other two are missing.

Five more workers and one firefighter were taken to the hospital. All injured are reportedly in stable condition.

Part of the facility has collapsed.

The explosion was so powerful that it was heard across the city and in nearby villages, where windows rattled. According to an employee at the scene, there were no gas tanks present.

Due to the fire, the authorities have closed Karditsi Street, with traffic being diverted through the village of Agia Kyriaki to allow rescue operations and ensure public and worker safety.

Forty firefighters with 15 vehicles are on site, along with the Special Disaster Unit (EMAK). EMAK units from Lamia have also arrived, and the Fire Crime Division (DAEE) has been ordered to intervene.