Massive fire in North Hollywood sends plume of smoke across the area

NORTH HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Firefighters battled a massive fire that sent smoke billowing into the air over North Hollywood and surrounding areas Sunday afternoon.

The blaze was reported just before 4 p.m. near Vanowen Street and Vineland Avenue, about a mile from Hollywood Burbank Airport, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Thick black smoke from the fire could be seen from miles away.

Flames were burning next to railroad tracks and a commercial building with placards, which indicate potential hazardous materials, LAFD said.

The fire started at California Art Products, in an outside storage area for movie props. However, flames did not damage the building.

A hazardous materials crew was deployed because of fiberglass, plastics and chemicals kept on site.

One passenger train was delayed.

It's unclear what caused the blaze. No injuries were reported.

A majority of the flames were extinguished before 5 p.m. and a knockdown was declared. Residents were asked to stay indoors in case there's any residual smoke.