Large fire in Krokstadelva housing area prompts evacuations

OSLO/DRAMMEN (Dagbladet) — Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre has expressed shock at the scale of a fast-moving fire in a Krokstadelva housing estate in Drammen that has forced hundreds of residents to evacuate.

“It makes a strong impression to see the violent fire in the residential area in Krokstadelva,” Støre told Dagbladet on Friday evening. “My deepest sympathy goes to those who have been evacuated and to everyone who has lost their homes.”

He added that his thoughts were also with the fire crews and volunteers battling the blaze under difficult conditions, and said he had ensured that emergency services had the resources they needed.

Firefighters reported the blaze spreading rapidly through multiple terraced houses late Friday afternoon. Six fire helicopters were assisting ground crews as the fire jumped containment lines and advanced toward new homes south of the affected zone, police said in an update on the force’s log.

Police estimated several hundred people had been evacuated, though the number was uncertain because many had left on their own initiative or were not at home when the fires started.

Justice and Emergency Preparedness Minister Astri Aas-Hansen also conveyed her shock at the blaze and offered condolences to those affected.

“Losing your home, your memories and your sense of security is among the hardest things a person can experience,” she told the Norwegian News Agency (NTB). “I also want to express my gratitude and respect for everyone working to bring the fire under control.”

Drammen municipality opened an evacuation and family support centre at Scandic Ambassadeur Drammen, with an initial assembly point at Stenseth school. Transport was arranged from the school to the hotel, where municipal staff were on hand to assist displaced residents.

The municipality said it had activated its crisis management team and was monitoring the situation closely.