Norway wildfire destroys over 100 homes, forces hundreds to evacuate in largest modern blaze

Drammen, Norway – A devastating wildfire has ravaged parts of Drammen, destroying more than 100 homes and forcing the evacuation of hundreds of residents. Authorities have declared the blaze the largest residential fire in modern Norwegian history.

The fire ignited in a terraced house in the city around 3:30 p.m. on Friday, according to police reports. Fueled by dry conditions and wind, the flames spread rapidly, engulfing nearby structures and reaching adjacent forests. Firefighters worked through Saturday morning to contain the inferno.

Around 100 firefighters, supported by aerial and military resources, battled the intense blaze. The Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection confirmed the scale of the disaster on Saturday, stating it was the most significant fire of its kind the country has seen in recent history. Hundreds of displaced residents sought shelter at an evacuation center.

Fortunately, authorities reported no missing persons as of Saturday morning. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Drammen is located approximately 21 miles (34 kilometers) southwest of Oslo.