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Austria Today

Austrian news in English

Friday, September 20, 2024

Massive Fire Ravages Pongau Farm

Published: 2024-09-01

A massive fire broke out at a farm in Forstau, Pongau, late Friday night, causing damage estimated at around three million euros.

The blaze, which originated in a barn, quickly spread to an adjacent building and threatened a nearby residential structure.

Over 220 emergency personnel from Salzburg and Styria were deployed to combat the flames, which were visible from a distance.

Despite the challenging conditions, including the need to lay water lines over two kilometers, firefighters managed to bring the fire under control by early Saturday morning.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported as all residents and animals were safely evacuated.

Investigators have identified a technical defect in a compressor, combined with accumulated hay or dust, as the likely cause of the fire.

The incident highlights the importance of safety measures in agricultural settings to prevent such costly disasters.