Ammonia leak triggers evacuation near Ørland coastal hotel

A major ammonia leak at a building adjacent to Ørland Kysthotell in Brekstad, Norway, has forced the evacuation of over 100 people, including hotel guests and nearby residents, local authorities reported Thursday evening.

Trøndelag police confirmed the leak, stating that the affected building contains high concentrations of ammonia. A 300-meter safety perimeter has been established, and emergency services are coordinating evacuations, according to operations leader Bjørnar Gaasvik.

“If you detect a sharp, pungent odor in the area, move well away immediately,” Gaasvik warned in a police log update. Three individuals have received medical assistance, while private homes, the coastal hotel, and Ørland Cultural Center are being cleared.

Evacuated residents are being directed to Ørland ungdomsskole (junior high school) as a gathering point. The Norwegian Armed Forces are assisting police with the operation. Wind conditions are carrying the gas northward toward the ferry terminal, express boat dock, and cultural center.

A national emergency alert was issued via nødvarsel.no, urging all individuals in Brekstad to evacuate to the designated school. “There has been an ammonia leak near Ørland Kysthotell. If you are in Brekstad, you are advised to evacuate to Ørland ungdomsskole,” the alert stated.

Energy provider FosenKraft Energi confirmed to VG that the leak originated from their district heating plant in Brekstad. “We have personnel en route to assess the situation and are in contact with fire and rescue services,” said managing director Rune Ottestad.

Ammonia, a colorless gas with a strong, irritating odor, is highly soluble in water and can cause severe respiratory issues upon exposure, according to the Great Norwegian Encyclopedia.