KNOXVILLE (WATE) - Fire crews in Knoxville battled a massive blaze at Shamrock Organic Products on Ailor Ave.
Dispatchers say the fire started just before 12 p.m. Sunday after a pile of mulch caught fire.
Windy weather combined with low humidity made it difficult for crews to contain the blaze. While the fire was originally contained to just 2 acres, by evening it had spread to the full 9 acre property of the business.
Smoke from the fire caused visibility issues in the area all day, as a massive plume rose from the fire. Reports of smoke in the area were reported around the area, from Magnolia Ave. to South Knoxville. Drivers traveling on Interstate 40 were forced to drive through the smoke and ash, which caused some rubbernecking and slow downs.
KPD shut down several roads in the area, including eastbound Middlebrook Pike at Proctor St., westbound Middlebrook Pike at 21st Street, Partners Place to westbound Middlebrook Pike, and the Sutherland Ave. turn lanes onto westbound Middlebrook Pike.
Firefighters are still on the scene trying to prevent the blaze from spreading.
KFD battling mulch fire on Ailor Ave.
Dispatchers say the fire started just before noon.
Fire is at Shamrock Organic Products.
