Durban’s Island View oil depot was ablaze on Tuesday night after three tanks exploded.
Hundreds of residents on the Bluff flocked to various streets and points to view flames shooting high into the night sky.
A Bluff resident, Ivan Raimbault, said there was an explosion at about 7pm.
Ten minutes later the second tank blew. The third one exploded five minutes later.
Raimbault said that his house, which overlooks the depot, shook with the first blast.
Netcare 911 spokesperson Chris Botha said there were no reports yet of any injuries or fatalities.
It was believed that two of the tanks that exploded contained solvents and the third lubricant oil.
National Ports Authority spokesperson Jyothi Naidoo said a statement would be issued shortly.
The entire Island View area surrounding the depot was cordoned off. — Sapa