Fire firefighters injured as crews gain ground on Krokstadelva blaze

DRAMMEN (Dagbladet) — Firefighters have gained “reasonable control” over the flanks of a major wildfire in Krokstadelva, outside Drammen, but full containment remains elusive as embers continue to smoulder overnight.

“The night has been calmer than earlier in the evening and afternoon,” said Geir Bodal, the police incident commander, speaking just after 04:30 on Saturday. “The fire service has kept the fire within the boundaries we set.”

Drone flights over the residential area and grounded helicopters are being used to monitor the blaze, which broke out Friday afternoon and has been described as the worst in the area in a century. At least four firefighters have sustained minor injuries, while one civilian and one member of the Home Guard were hospitalised with smoke inhalation. Eight police officers also reported smoke exposure during evacuations.

Bodal said the most challenging pocket of fire lies in a wooded area deeper inside the evacuation zone. “There’s a stretch of forest that’s still burning strongly,” he said. “We’ll launch suppression efforts there as soon as there’s more daylight.”

The number of homes destroyed is not yet confirmed, but Bodal estimated at least 100 residential units have been lost. “It’s a terrible situation for those affected,” he said. “Everything can disappear in a short time. It’s just a horrific feeling.” No fatalities have been reported.

Bodal praised the emergency services for their rapid response. “I’m full of admiration for the work that’s been done,” he said. “Everyone showed up and pitched in. A huge effort has gone into trying to get this fire under control.”