House fire in Kemi spreads hazardous smoke, nearby residents warned to stay indoors

A residential fire in the Finnish city of Kemi is releasing dangerous smoke into the surrounding area, prompting emergency services to issue a hazard warning for nearby neighbourhoods, reports Yle.

The Lapland Rescue Department is currently battling a blaze in a 150-square-metre detached house on Mäntylänkatu street. While no injuries have been reported, the smoke poses a health risk to residents in the Mäntylä, Koivuharju, Ruutti, and Ruutinranta districts.

Authorities have advised people in the affected areas to remain indoors, close all windows and doors, turn off ventilation systems, and await further instructions until the danger has passed. Firefighters expect extinguishing efforts to continue late into the evening.

The situation remains ongoing, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.