Hsinchu County, Taiwan — September 19, 2025 — A massive fire broke out at the Xinfeng landfill shortly after midnight, sending plumes of thick, foul-smelling smoke across nearby areas. The blaze continued for nearly nine hours before being brought under control by firefighters at around 9:20 a.m., though smoldering hotspots remained on site.
Cause and Firefighting Efforts
The Hsinchu County Environmental Protection Bureau (EPB) said preliminary analysis suggested the flames may have been triggered by methane buildup from decomposing waste, combined with recent hot and humid weather. To fight the blaze, emergency crews deployed four water lines, five excavators, one firefighting robot, and drone support.
Impact on Residents
The heavy smoke, described by locals as carrying a pungent plastic odor, could be seen from a distance. Concerned residents from Xinfeng and nearby Hukou Township reported discomfort due to the smell. The EPB issued an urgent public advisory, warning that wind patterns might also push the smoke toward Yangmei District in Taoyuan City. Authorities urged people living downwind to close windows, wear masks outdoors, and take protective measures.
The Hsinchu County Fire Department also posted an update on social media around 9:30 a.m., confirming the fire was under control. Motorists on the West Coast Expressway were cautioned about reduced visibility due to lingering smoke. Aerial images released online showed the scale of the incident, with the temporary garbage storage area almost completely consumed by fire.
A Recurring Problem
This was the second fire reported at the Xinfeng landfill this month, following a similar incident on September 5. Records show that the site has experienced at least 85 fire outbreaks over the past five years.
Currently, the landfill is estimated to contain about 240,000 tons of garbage. To reduce risks, the EPB announced plans to accelerate waste treatment through high-efficiency incinerators and by transferring part of the waste to Hsinchu City and Miaoli for processing. The goal is to eliminate the landfill backlog within five years.
