Norway is facing one of the worst fire disasters in its modern history after a massive blaze destroyed more than 100 homes in the city of Drammen, southwest of Oslo. Authorities have described it as the largest residential fire in modern Norwegian history, forcing hundreds of residents to flee their homes as firefighters continue efforts to contain the flames.
The fire reportedly began in a townhouse before spreading rapidly through a densely populated residential neighborhood. Strong winds and dry weather allowed the flames to move quickly from house to house and eventually into nearby forested areas, making firefighting operations extremely challenging.
Emergency crews, supported by helicopters dropping water from the air, have been working around the clock to stop the blaze. More than 60 firefighters have been deployed, while police evacuated hundreds of people from affected neighborhoods as a precaution.
Despite the scale of the disaster, authorities said no deaths or missing persons have been reported so far. Officials credited the rapid evacuation efforts for preventing a greater tragedy, although many families have lost everything they owned in the fire.
Norwegian officials said the exact cause of the fire is still under investigation. Investigators will begin examining the site once firefighters declare the area safe.
The blaze has shocked the country because Norway is generally known for its cool climate and rarely experiences fires of this magnitude. Local officials described the event as unprecedented, with black smoke visible for kilometers across the region.
Authorities have opened emergency shelters for displaced residents, while local governments and relief organizations are providing temporary accommodation, food and essential supplies. Damage assessments are expected to continue over the coming days as firefighters extinguish remaining hotspots.
Experts say changing weather patterns, stronger winds and drier conditions are increasing wildfire risks even in countries that historically experienced relatively few major fires. The incident has renewed discussions in Norway about disaster preparedness and fire prevention measures.