A massive wildfire in Krokstadelva that destroyed more than 100 homes was brought under control on Saturday after burning since Friday, though extinguishing efforts are expected to continue for several more days, authorities said Sunday.
The Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection described the blaze as the largest recorded fire of its kind in modern Norwegian history. More than 400 people were evacuated, leaving roughly 400 residents homeless. No fatalities or missing persons have been confirmed. A civilian and a Civil Defence worker were hospitalised with smoke inhalation, while one firefighter sustained minor injuries and eight police officers inhaled smoke.
Police said they believe the fire started by accident or spontaneous combustion, dismissing rumours of terrorism. Drammen's fire chief, Torgeir Andersen, lost his own home in the blaze. A combination of drought, heat, wind, dry vegetation, and gas barbecue cylinders fuelled the fire's rapid spread. Some evacuees were permitted to return home on Saturday.