Fire engulfs Kongsberg steakhouse after explosion

A major fire broke out at the Big Horn Steak House in Kongsberg on Wednesday evening, with witnesses reporting loud explosions and thick smoke.

Emergency services responded quickly after the blaze was reported at 20:16. By 20:26, police confirmed the building was fully engulfed, and firefighters began containment efforts. Authorities initially established a 300-meter safety zone around the site, urging the public to stay away.

Operations leader Ottar Steinstø of the Southeast Police District stated the explosions were caused by propane gas cylinders. By 21:00, police confirmed the fire was under control, with flames significantly reduced and no further risk of spreading. The safety zone was later lifted after no additional gas cylinders were found.

Witnesses described a powerful blast that shook nearby buildings, followed by a large column of smoke. One resident, Odne Brakstad Sæterøy, said he saw flames rising above rooftops. Dozens of onlookers gathered at a safe distance to observe and photograph the scene.

All restaurant staff have been accounted for, and no one is believed to remain inside the building, though a full search has not yet been conducted. Firefighters are working to protect adjacent structures.

Earlier reports mistakenly placed the fire in Drammen before correcting the location to Kongsberg.