A fire broke out at a residential building construction site on Laurowa Street in Warsaw’s Białołęka district around 1 PM, prompting evacuations.
Fire Breaks Out at Construction Site
Around 1 PM, a fire erupted at a residential building under construction at 37 Laurowa Street in Warsaw’s Białołęka district, engulfing the building’s facade. Thick plumes of black smoke were visible across the city.
Initial reports indicated the fire started during work on the ground floor, spreading to the ground floor, a storage area containing gas canisters, the side wall insulation, and the roof.
Crane Operator Rescued
The fire blocked the escape route for the crane operator, who became stranded at height. Firefighters simultaneously fought the blaze and launched a rescue operation.
Around 2:30 PM, rescuers from the High Rescue Unit retrieved the operator, safely lowering him to the ground. He was then transported to a hospital with burns to his face and hands.
Extensive Emergency Response
A total of 12 fire crews, a ladder, a lift, a medical vehicle, a high-angle rescue team, and seven operational officers responded to the incident. Police secured the area and closed nearby streets.
The number of units dispatched increased as the fire escalated.
Fire Contained, Structural Concerns Emerge
The main fire front was brought under control in the afternoon, but firefighters continued to extinguish remaining hotspots for several hours. The fire was fully extinguished around 7 PM, with one fire crew remaining for monitoring.
Evacuation Ordered Due to Crane Damage
Building inspectors determined the fire had compromised the crane’s structure, posing a danger. Consequently, 40 residents of nearby buildings were evacuated.
The City Security Center organized transportation and accommodation for the evacuated residents.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the fire is under investigation, with initial indications pointing to work being carried out on the ground floor.
