Firefighters rushed to a massive blaze engulfing the roof space of a hotel on North Street, Midhurst, in the early hours of Thursday, March 16. The fire quickly spread to surrounding properties, escalating the situation into a major emergency.
At 1:08am, Joint Fire Control mobilised an extensive response, dispatching 15 fire engines, two aerial ladder platforms, two water carriers, an off-road vehicle, and a high volume pump to combat the fire. Upon arrival, crews found a serious fire in the hotel roof space that was rapidly spreading. Firefighters are working hard to control the inferno and expect to remain on site for several hours.
More than 30 people have been safely evacuated from the hotel and nearby buildings. A relief centre has been opened in Midhurst to support those displaced by the fire. Residents have been advised to keep windows and doors closed due to the heavy smoke plume in the area.
North Street remains closed and is expected to be inaccessible for some time. Commuters and local residents are advised to plan alternative routes.
Multiple agencies are involved in the emergency response, including Surrey Fire & Rescue, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue, Sussex Police, and South East Coast Ambulance Service, all providing support at the scene.
Originally published by UKNIP.
