A massive blaze erupted in central Sydney on Thursday, with more than 100 firefighters battling towering flames and dense smoke that engulfed a seven-storey building. Authorities warned that the fire was rapidly spreading and posed a threat to several adjacent buildings, including residential apartments.
The fire and rescue service of New South Wales, Australia, reported that the building was on the verge of collapse, with the inferno extending to neighboring structures. Shocking footage captured the entire top floor wall leaning over and crumbling into the street below, as the building illuminated the surroundings with an intense orange glow.
Firefighters valiantly sprayed water onto the building, its windows illuminated by the raging flames. In front of the structure, a burning van added to the scene of devastation.
Social media images showcased flames reaching heights almost equivalent to the building itself, shooting into the sky in a mesmerizing yet destructive display.
Emergency services swiftly dispatched more than 100 firefighters and 20 fire engines to Randle Street, near Central Station, where the inferno raged. The fire service urged the public to avoid the area while firefighting operations continued, as the city streets reverberated with the blaring sirens of emergency vehicles.
Amidst the chaotic scene, one firefighter sustained a minor burn to his right arm, according to the service. Firefighting efforts are anticipated to persist throughout the night.
Politician Tanya Plibersek, representing the Surry Hills electorate, expressed her concern over the devastating fire, urging residents to prioritize safety and heed instructions from emergency services.
Transportation was also impacted by the blaze, as light rail services in the vicinity were temporarily suspended until further notice, as confirmed by New South Wales Transport.
Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries, as stated by a spokesperson for the New South Wales Police. However, television footage revealed burning embers being carried onto a nearby building’s balcony, highlighting the potential dangers posed by the spreading fire.
The community remains on high alert as firefighters battle against the massive blaze, striving to contain and extinguish the flames that threaten the heart of central Sydney.
