Crown Prince Haakon visits fire-hit town: 'Terrible for those affected'

Crown Prince Haakon visited the Norwegian town of Krokstadelva on Sunday, a community reeling from a devastating fire that erupted on Friday. The blaze, described as the largest in Norway in recent memory, has left more than 100 homes destroyed and over 400 residents evacuated.

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It is incredibly good that there were no loss of life. At the same time, I understand that it is terrible for those who have been affected by it.

During his visit, the Crown Prince conveyed his empathy to the affected residents. "It is incredibly good that there were no loss of life. At the same time, I understand that it is terrible for those who have been affected by it," he stated, according to the news agency NTB. He acknowledged the deep personal impact of losing one's home and memories, calling the event "violently hard."

"One cherishes the place where one lives and has many memories. One has future plans and dreams of how to build one's life further," the Crown Prince said. He expressed hope that those impacted feel supported, adding, "I hope that everyone who is affected by it feels that they are not alone."

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One cherishes the place where one lives and has many memories. One has future plans and dreams of how to build one's life further. So this is violently hard.

Norwegian police reported that the fire was under control by Saturday evening. The Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB) confirmed it as the largest registered fire of its kind in modern times. While the cause is still under investigation, authorities suspect an accident or self-ignition. The fire, which broke out in a terraced housing area, also led to injuries from smoke inhalation among emergency personnel, though no other serious injuries were reported.

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I hope that everyone who is affected by it feels that they are not alone.