Fire alarm in Krokstadelva forces evacuation of 400 residents

Firefighters and police held a press briefing on Monday as they continued to battle a major blaze in Krokstadelva, a neighborhood in Drammen, Norway, that has destroyed more than 100 housing units.

“We have a good overview of the situation,” said Jan Erik Fevang, incident commander for the fire service. “We are still working in the residential area and in the forest, and we are overstaffed to ensure no further ignition.” He added that rising temperatures have increased the risk of forest fires, but that the current response should allow for a scale-down later this week.

The fire service reported that ground temperatures remain high and that helicopters continue to drop water over the smoldering area. Fevang warned the public to stay out of the zone, citing heavy machinery and aerial operations. “We do not want people in the area,” he said. “Wait for official guidance.”

Police incident commander Helene Sandquist said the operation could last several days. Authorities will notify residents when it is safe to return, but warned that some areas may remain hazardous until ground temperatures cool. “It will take time before it is cold enough to be safe,” she said.

Sandquist said investigators have not yet determined the cause of the fire and have not identified any suspects. Crime scene technicians have been unable to access the suspected ignition point due to residual heat. Police have asked the public to submit any photos or videos of the fire to assist the investigation. No missing or deceased persons have been reported.

Fevang described the working conditions as “hot and exhausting,” but said measures are in place to reduce risks to firefighters. The fire service confirmed it is using drones to monitor ground temperatures in the affected zone.

Police urged the public to avoid speculation about the cause of the fire on social media. “Let us do our job,” Sandquist said.