Chemical spill in Riga kills local wildlife

RIGA -- A chemical spill in Riga's Maras Pond in Pardaugava has killed fish and ducks and is in danger of seeping into the Daugava.

No injuries have so far been reported, but authorities are asking people to steer clear of the pond, television news program "900 sekunds" reported. 

The chemical spill is the result of a warehouse fire that swept through the "Baltais vējš" warehouse late Sunday night. The chemicals -- mostly detergents, disinfectants and other household cleaning products -- initially spilled into the Marupite stream before making its way to the pond.

"Eko Osta" has begun leading the clean-up operation.

The pond is reportedly a strange color and gives off strong odors from the high concentration of chemicals in the water. Authorities say that no wildlife will be able to live in the pond for some time, but that the damage from the spill is likely not permanent.