Fire in Oudenbosch forces evacuations, rekindles multiple times
A major fire on Professor Mulderslaan in Oudenbosch engulfed multiple properties Sunday evening, leading to the evacuation of three homes. The fire initially broke out around 9:15 p.m. in an outdoor structure behind one of the houses, according to the regional safety authority VRMWB. By 10:15 p.m., firefighters declared the situation under control, only for the flames to reignite at 11 p.m., forcing additional firefighting efforts.
Residents of three homes were safely evacuated, with no injuries reported. Local authorities arranged temporary accommodation for those affected.
The fire first erupted in a backyard area and quickly spread to an adjoining property due to high winds and dry conditions. Firefighters responded with multiple teams and equipment to contain the blaze. Despite successfully extinguishing the initial flames, smoldering debris caused the fire to flare up again later in the evening.
"After the initial containment, we maintained a close watch, but unfortunately, some hot spots remained active," a spokesperson for the safety region stated.
The evacuation affected three homes, whose occupants were taken to a nearby shelter for temporary care. "There were no injuries, but the situation remains distressing for those involved," local officials said.
Fire crews worked late into the night to ensure no further rekindling occurred, using thermal imaging cameras to detect remaining heat sources. Specialized units were deployed to manage the structural safety of the affected homes, which sustained significant fire and water damage.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire, focusing on the backyard structure where it originated. Preliminary assessments suggest electrical equipment or a discarded flammable material may have been involved.
