WEST GHENT, NY (CBS) -- A massive, noxious inferno engulfed the TCI plant of New York, a company that disposes electrical equipment, PCBs and bulk oil. The fire was first called in around 10:15 p.m. Wednesday (Aug. 1, 2012) Two hours later, it was raging even more fiercely, and one knowledgeable onlooker predicted it could go all night.

A state of emergency has been declared in West Ghent due to the fire, reported the Columbia County 911 Office around 12:15 a.m., and a mandatory evacuation was implemented for everyone within a half-mile radius of the fire.

This morning it is recommended that anyone within a 15 mile radius of the incident cancel outdoor activities and remain indoors until further notice. State Officials are conducting tests of the air quality in the vicinity of the fire to determine if there are possible exposures.