Massive fire in the neighborhood – more than 30 houses completely burned down, people urgently evacuated PHOTO

The fire broke out in the morning hours, most likely due to a chimney fire in the house of an elderly woman, and within just a few hours escalated into a large-scale disaster.

The blaze spread rapidly due to strong winds, which carried sparks from one building to another. Residents say the houses, mostly wooden, caught fire almost simultaneously.

“Sparks were jumping from one house to another. We didn’t know what to save first,” said one resident.

More than 200 firefighters are battling the blaze 

More than 200 firefighters are battling the blaze on the ground, coming from six counties and supported by dozens of vehicles and pieces of equipment. According to ISU Vrancea spokesperson Florin Olaru, the operation includes 13 fire engines with water and foam, seven operational trucks, three minibuses for personnel transport, and two SMURD emergency medical teams.

Due to stress and loss of property, four people suffered panic attacks, but there is no information about serious injuries.

Evacuated families have been temporarily accommodated in village guesthouses and at the Salvamont rescue service base. The most vulnerable residents, including the elderly and children, have been taken in by neighbors and relatives.

“We must help them, we cannot leave them on the street. We are looking for urgent housing solutions,” said Soveja mayor Ionuț Filimon.

For residents of the area, the tragedy carries additional weight as it recalls a major fire from 70 years ago, when 17 people died and almost the entire village, with around 370 houses, was destroyed. Back then, as now, public buildings including the kindergarten and municipal facilities were reduced to ashes.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, while authorities are assessing the damage and organizing assistance for the affected families.