Detroit Evening Report: Large mulch fire affecting air quality in Detroit

If you’ve been smelling smoke on the west side of the city, you’re not alone. A large mulch fire started Tuesday evening at Detroit Mulch Co. that continued to burn on Wednesday near Lyndon and Prairie streets. 

Firefighters are still working to extinguish the mulch, which covers a lot that is hundreds of yards long. Some piles of mulch are 20 feet high. 

The smoke is affecting air quality in areas around the region, and residents in nearby neighborhoods are urged to keep their windows closed. 

Crews are pouring water on the fire, but officials say they don’t know how long it will take to completely put out the blaze. No injuries or damages to nearby structures have been reported. 

Other headlines for Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024:

• United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain warned of a potential strike against Stellantis during his speech at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago this week.
• Ford Motor Company announced Wednesday that it’s changing its plans for producing electric vehicles.
• AAA Michigan is reminding drivers to watch out for students as they head back to school. The first day of classes for the Detroit Public Schools Community District will be Monday, Aug. 26.
• Gas prices in metro Detroit are falling headed into the Labor Day holiday weekend, averaging around $3.50 per gallon — 10 cents per gallon less than last week.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.