A Sharjah massive fire broke out in the Industrial Area 13 on Friday afternoon, engulfing a warehouse and sending thick plumes of black smoke across the skyline. The fire was reported around 2:30 PM and raged on for almost 24 hours, as emergency teams rushed to the site to contain the intense flames.
Eyewitnesses said the fire started with a loud explosion followed by rising flames. Within minutes, the fire spread quickly due to the nature of the materials inside the warehouse, which reportedly stored flammable goods.
Emergency Response Teams Arrived Quickly
As soon as reports of the blaze reached authorities, fire and rescue teams from multiple civil defence stations in Sharjah, including Samnan, Muwailih, and Al Mina, rushed to the spot. Dubai Civil Defence also sent teams to support the firefighting operation.
Firefighters worked tirelessly around the clock, using cranes, water tankers, and foam to try and douse the stubborn flames. The situation was extremely challenging due to the heat, smoke, and the presence of flammable substances.
Authorities closed nearby roads to traffic, and the area was evacuated to ensure public safety.
Fire Continued Through the Night
Despite all efforts, the Sharjah massive fire continued to burn through the night. Firefighters remained on site, constantly rotating shifts, and bringing in more equipment. Black smoke filled the air, and residents living nearby were urged to stay indoors and close their windows.
The intensity of the fire and the size of the warehouse made it difficult to bring the situation under control quickly. The area affected spanned thousands of square feet, and the fire moved rapidly from one section to another.
Blaze Finally Contained After Nearly 24 Hours
After close to 24 hours of non-stop operations, the combined efforts of the Sharjah and Dubai civil defence teams finally brought the fire under control on Saturday afternoon.
Cooling operations continued for several hours to prevent the fire from reigniting. Firefighters ensured that no hot spots remained and that the site was safe for the investigation to begin.
A senior official confirmed that no injuries or deaths were reported in the incident, which was a major relief considering the scale of the fire.
Investigation Has Begun
Authorities have now launched a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire. Initial reports suggest the fire might have been triggered by an electrical fault or improper storage of flammable materials.
The forensic team is currently examining the remains of the warehouse to collect evidence. Police have also taken statements from workers and eyewitnesses who were present at the time of the incident.
Civil Defence officials have urged business owners in industrial zones to follow safety protocols, especially when storing hazardous materials.
Surrounding Businesses Affected
Several nearby businesses had to shut down temporarily due to the fire and smoke. Workers in neighbouring warehouses were asked to evacuate as a safety measure. Some companies reported minor damage due to heat and ash, while others expressed concern over the lack of fire preparedness in the area.
One warehouse employee from a nearby facility said, “We saw the flames and ran out immediately. The smoke was very thick, and we were scared it would reach us.”
Public Safety Measures in Focus
This Sharjah massive fire has raised questions about fire safety measures in the industrial areas of the UAE. Civil Defence authorities said inspections would be increased, and strict penalties would be imposed for any safety violations.
They stressed the need for regular maintenance of fire systems, proper storage of hazardous materials, and availability of emergency exits in all industrial and commercial buildings.
Businesses are being advised to review their fire safety plans, train staff in emergency response, and coordinate closely with civil defence units to ensure a quick response in case of an emergency.
Sharjah Civil Defence: “Prepared for All Emergencies”
The Sharjah Civil Defence has reassured residents and business owners that their teams are trained and equipped to handle even the most serious fires. In a statement, they said:
“Our teams worked continuously to contain the fire and protect lives and property. We appreciate the support from Dubai Civil Defence and thank all emergency responders for their bravery and quick action.”
They added that community cooperation during emergencies plays a huge role in ensuring quick and safe outcomes.
No Casualties Reported, Thanks to Quick Evacuation
Officials praised the quick evacuation of the warehouse and nearby buildings. Workers and staff managed to leave the area in time, avoiding injuries.
Medical teams were also on standby at the site, but thankfully no serious injuries were reported. A few workers were treated for minor breathing issues due to smoke inhalation but were discharged soon after.
Wider Impact of the Incident
While the fire was finally put out, the damage it left behind is massive. The warehouse and its contents have been completely destroyed. The financial loss is still being calculated and is expected to be significant.
Residents nearby also complained about the lingering smell of smoke and poor air quality. Municipal teams have been deployed to clean the area and restore normal conditions.
UAE Authorities Call for Public Awareness
In light of the Sharjah massive fire, authorities are calling for greater public awareness and responsibility. They encourage all residents and business owners to report any unsafe storage practices, blocked emergency exits, or fire hazards.
A fire safety campaign is expected to be launched soon, focusing on industrial zones, warehouses, and construction sites.
Final Words
The Sharjah massive fire that raged for nearly 24 hours has left a significant mark on the city’s industrial sector. Thanks to the quick action of firefighters, no lives were lost, and the fire was finally controlled.
However, the incident serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of fire safety, especially in industrial and commercial zones. Authorities now aim to ensure better enforcement of fire regulations and heightened preparedness for any future incidents.
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