Big fire in Longyearbyen

This is written by Svalbardposten, which mentioned the fire first.

On Monday morning, the Governor writes that the fire service has the fire under control.

Svalbardposten writes that violent flames could be seen over large parts of Longyearbyen.

No one has so far been reported missing after the fire, writes the Governor of Svalbard in a press release on Monday morning.

There they confirm that it was still burning at 05.00.

– One person has received treatment for minor smoke damage, it says.

Residents of the building and nearby houses have been evacuated as a result of the fire.

Longyearbyen local government has set up an evacuation center in connection with the fire.

The fire brigade and the Mayor were notified of the fire at 03.31.

Arild Olsen, leader of the local council in Longyearbyen, tells Dagbladet that 34 people have so far been evacuated after the fire.

– We are responsible for establishing an evacuation and next-of-kin centre. We have welcomed people there and ensure that they get what they need: food, clothing and care, says Olsen.

A psychosocial team has also been set up for those affected by the fire.

– It is a dramatic experience they have been through, says Olsen.

The local council is working to find more permanent housing for those affected.

– We are in the process of ensuring that they get a more permanent roof over their heads. It is clear that the building is burning down, concludes Olsen.