Waiau Center, where a fire last week destroyed and damaged some businesses, will be closed through at least 1 p.m. today while state health officials work to remove cylinders containing carbon dioxide from the property.

State health officials began venting 11 cylinders damaged during the fire to prepare them for proper disposal and will continue venting them today from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Health officials said some cylinders may ignite and create a controlled explosion during the venting process. Area residents and businesses have been notified and are voluntarily evacuating.