Inferno engulfs multi-story building in Sydney
A massive fire has destroyed a multi-story building in the center of Sydney, Australia, forcing more than 120 firefighters to respond for several hours. Parts of the structure collapsed, but the fire department was able to rescue several individuals.
According to the fire department, the blaze broke out in the Surry Hills neighborhood near the main railway station in the afternoon for unknown reasons. There were no initial reports of any injuries. Over 120 first responders and 30 vehicles were called to the scene and the flames are now under control.
During the course of the fire, parts of the seven-story building partially collapsed. Local media outlets captured footage of the roof collapsing and a portion of the facade crashing to the ground. The fire department referred to the event as an “inferno”.
Adjacent buildings evacuated
Reports indicate that the former factory near Elizabeth Street had been abandoned but was being used as a shelter by homeless individuals. According to 9News Sydney, over 50 people were safely evacuated from the building. As a precaution, adjacent buildings were also evacuated to prevent the flames from spreading. At least one parked car was also impacted by the fire.
Thick black smoke could be seen from all over the city and several streets were shut down as a result. Residents of Sydney were advised to avoid the area near the main train station due to the fire.