Fires were still raging at the Tuapse oil facility on the Black Sea, AFP reported on Thursday. Four storage tanks are reportedly still ablaze after Monday's attack.
Unverified images on social media show huge clouds of black smoke over the city and oil spills in the sea, with dead fish and birds on the beaches.
On Wednesday, local authorities warned of “toxic rain” that leaves a black coating behind. The concentration of toxic particles was said to be two to three times higher than the legal limit. Residents were urged to close windows and wear face masks outdoors.
Tuapse is home to one of the largest oil ports on the Black Sea, but is also popular with Russian holidaymakers.
