The heavy fire broke out in an industrial building in Melby farm at around 11pm on Friday evening. The building, which is approximately 90 by 15 meters, was already engulfed in flames when the emergency services arrived on the scene and due to a powerful explosion, the units were forced to back away and watch as the property burned down.
In the fire-ravaged building there is an unknown number of gas bottles which pose a great risk of more explosions. Decisions were made early on to shut down the E4 which runs right next to the fire scene.
Barrier against road
During Saturday, the rescue service worked creatively to secure the area. Among other things, containers and other materials that were in the area have been set up as a barrier against the road. At 06:00 on Sunday morning – more than a day after it was closed – traffic was allowed to open again.
However, the fire was already under control on Saturday, and on the site there is basically only a pile that has collapsed, says Lennart Ågren, officer on duty at the Östra Götaland Rescue Service. But the high heat stops the firefighters from getting close.
– New decisions will be made here on Sunday morning whether you can approach the fire scene or not, he says at 03:00 on the night of Sunday.
Flammable material
Around the building there is lots of rubble as well as cars and a boat. The emergency services also removed flammable goods from neighboring buildings.
Three families who live in houses next door had to be evacuated in connection with the fire, but already at 01:30 on the night of the fire, all were able to return to their homes. No one has been injured.