A massive blaze erupted at a residential complex in the affluent South Kensington district of London in the early hours of Friday, resulting in the hospitalization of 11 individuals and the evacuation of approximately 130 residents, according to fire officials.
Firefighters were swiftly dispatched to the scene, with fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters tackling the inferno at a terraced house that had been converted into apartments on Emperor’s Gate, located in the southwest area of the British capital near the Natural History Museum.
Upon arrival, responders found half of the ground floor of the five-storey building engulfed in flames, with the fire rapidly spreading to the upper floors and roof, stated the London Fire Brigade.
Station Commander Steve Collins, present at the scene, emphasized the challenges faced by crews in containing the blaze: “The fire has spread from the ground floor to the top floor and roof. Crews are working hard to… stop it spreading to adjacent buildings.”
Rescue efforts were initiated, with five individuals safely evacuated using ladders, while a total of approximately 130 residents were forced to vacate the premises along with occupants of neighboring buildings.
The fire service confirmed that eleven people had been treated for smoke inhalation and transported to hospital for further medical attention.
The incident, which unfolded amidst the darkness of night, caused significant disruption and raised concerns among residents and emergency responders alike.
Source: AFP
