Drone footage shows extent of major Arnhem fire; Situation now under control
A devastating fire in the city center of Arnhem has been brought under control, though it remains active in some areas. Around 100 residents are being cared for as emergency services continue to manage the aftermath of the blaze, which has left a visible scar on the city’s historic center, drone footage shows.
The fire began early Thursday morning at 3:45 a.m. at a SoLow store on Jansstraat, near Korenmarkt, and quickly spread to surrounding buildings. At least ten buildings, including shops and multiple residential units above them, have been severely damaged. Firefighters are still working to extinguish the flames from the outside, as the risk of collapse has prevented them from entering at least ten of the affected structures.
By mid-morning, the fire department reported they had gained "more control" of the situation, using thermal imaging cameras mounted on drones to pinpoint areas still at risk. Gas supply has been shut off to 75 buildings to help prevent the fire from spreading further. Although no missing persons have been reported, authorities are continuing to assess the damage and confirm whether there are any casualties.
"While the fire is under control, we expect to be working throughout the day," said a spokesperson for the fire department. "The damage, particularly to buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, is extensive. Some 25 homes and the shops below them are so badly damaged that they are no longer habitable."
To contain the fire, the fire department has started demolishing parts of the affected block to extinguish remaining fires and ensure no one is trapped inside. Investigators have not yet determined the exact cause of the fire, but it is believed to have started in a party supply store. Authorities are still working to confirm the fire's origin.
As a result of the fire, approximately 150 shops and homes in the city center are without power. Businesses between Nieuwe Plein and Jansplein are closed for the day, and bus routes through the area have been altered. It remains unclear when residents will be able to return to their homes, as many buildings will need to be assessed for stability before they can be deemed safe.
Around 60 to 80 residents were evacuated during the early stages of the fire. They have been relocated to the Arnhem city hall, where they are receiving assistance from emergency services and support from local victim assistance teams.
Mayor Ahmed Marcouch, who interrupted his vacation in Morocco to address the crisis, expressed his concern for the affected residents. "The impact is significant, and my thoughts are with those who have been affected. I hope no one has been harmed in this disaster," he said in a statement.
"My heart bleeds for the heart of our city. Yesterday, there was already a fire, and now we are dealing with the destruction of our historic city center. Around 100 people were evacuated because they couldn’t stay in their homes, and entrepreneurs couldn’t go to work. The impact is immense," the Mayor added.
Marcouch emphasized the hard work of the 150 firefighters, who worked throughout the night to combat the flames. "I have so much admiration for Arnhem's resilience. Once the fire is fully contained, we will work tirelessly to restore the city. My thoughts are with those affected," he said.
Deputy Mayor Cathelijne Bouwkamp also expressed shock, adding that the city’s residents and businesses were struggling with the uncertainty. "It’s devastating for our historic city center and for the people who live and work here. The shock is enormous," she said. "Many people are still unsure if they will be able to return home. The fire has left a trail of destruction, and we’re working to support everyone impacted by this tragedy."
