Major Fire in Riga's Ulmaņa Gatve Contained, Hundreds Evacuated
Firefighters managed to contain a large warehouse fire in Riga on Tuesday evening, evacuating nearly 400 people from the building and surrounding area. No injuries were reported.
On Tuesday evening, the State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) announced that a fire at 2 Kārļa Ulmaņa Gatve in Riga had been contained. The blaze engulfed a warehouse-type building covering 3,500 square metres. Due to dense urban development and the large fire area, the highest level of fire hazard was declared.
Approximately 200 people evacuated from the burning building, and another 180 from adjacent structures, totalling nearly 380. The Emergency Medical Service reported that medics were on standby at the scene but no casualties have been recorded. VUGD advised residents in the area to close windows, turn off ventilation, and avoid driving nearby.
More than 40 firefighters, 10 tanker trucks, three ladder trucks, and a rescue vehicle were deployed. Firefighters continue to work at the site, dismantling and inspecting building structures and burnt premises.
The building complex is the former "Straume" factory, constructed in the 1970s, with a total area of 40,000 square metres. In October 2024, it was purchased by the "Merito Real Estate Special Fund III", managed by investment company "Merito Partners", using a €4 million loan from BluOr Bank. The complex houses over 50 tenants from various industries.
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