Ratnieks Suggests Possible Cause of Ulmaņa Gatve Fire; Drone Flights Banned

The State Police have imposed restrictions on drone flights over the site of a major fire on Kārļa Ulmaņa gatve in Riga to avoid interfering with emergency services. The restriction, based on the Aviation Law, may be extended if needed. Police remind that drone flights in emergency zones are only allowed after coordination with the incident commander.

Edvards Ratnieks, deputy chairman of Riga City Council, stated on social media that a possible cause of the fire was negligence during autogenous cutting of metal structures. He emphasized that no official cause has been determined yet.

The fire broke out on Tuesday afternoon in a warehouse building. It affected 3,500 square meters of a total 21,000 square meter area. Approximately 200 people evacuated from the burning building, and another 180 from adjacent buildings. There were no casualties.

The State Fire and Rescue Service received the call at 15:52. Due to the large fire area, dense construction, and risk of structural collapse, the highest fire danger level was declared. Over 40 firefighters, 10 tankers, three ladder trucks, and a rescue vehicle were involved. Traffic in the area was restored by 20:10. Medical personnel were on standby, but no injuries were reported.