Fire hits former Moscow power plant, hundreds evacuated
A large fire erupted in the building of a former power plant in Moscow. The building now houses a fitness club, skatepark, and dance studio. Approximately 200 people were evacuated.
The fire ignited in the building of a former power station in eastern Moscow. The upper floors were quickly engulfed in smoke.
"Some individuals saved themselves by breaking windows, while others were evacuated by rescuers," reports the Russian independent portal Meduza.
More than 60 firefighters took part in the rescue operation. Roughly 200 people were evacuated from the premises. Among them, 120 exited independently, and 80 were assisted by rescuers. The TASS agency noted that four individuals were taken to hospital.
State news agencies suggested the fire may have been caused by a short circuit in electrical equipment. The Shot portal indicated that the building did not have an automatic fire alarm system.
"Residents report that white smoke is visible. There is a strong smell at the site of the fire," reported the Shot portal, which also released a video recording.
The building, once a power station, now comprised numerous rooms utilised by various service points.
"At the time the fire broke out, a cadet class was holding a photo session to celebrate graduation. According to the students, the entire class managed to escape rapidly," reports the portal MSK1.ru.
Source: Meduza, TASS, Ria Novosti, Shot
