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Landfill Fire Sends Huge Smoke Plume over Northern Indiana

ELKHART, Ind. (AP) — A trash fire burning in a northern Indiana landfill sent a huge plume of smoke into the sky and prompted warnings for nearby residents to stay indoors.

Authorities say the fire at the Earthmovers Landfill just south of Elkhart was reported about 3:45 a.m. Wednesday. Crews were working to smother the flames, but fire continued burning several hours later.

The Elkhart County Sheriff's Department says that although the landfill owned by Waste Management doesn't accept hazardous materials it recommended that people west and northwest of the site remain inside.

Indiana Department of Environmental Management spokesman Barry Sneed said the air was being monitored and that anyone with sensitivities to smoke should keep their windows and doors closed.

The fire's cause wasn't immediately known and no injuries were reported.

As Vice President of Radio Operations, Tom is responsible for overseeing Lakeshore Public Radio. He oversees the radio station’s programming, as well as news. He was instrumental in bringing several different genres of music to Lakeshore Public Radio.