Amherst Declares State of Emergency After Large Fire
A significant fire broke out on Friday night at the Olympia Place apartment complex in Amherst, displacing over 200 residents.
Fire Incident Details
The blaze began around 8:19 p.m. at a building under construction on Olympia Drive. Firefighters encountered multiple explosions, likely caused by fuel tanks at the site. The fire spread quickly to adjacent buildings, leading to a crane collapse due to the intense flames. Efforts were further challenged by poor water pressure in the area.
Emergency Response
- Fire crews from Amherst and neighboring towns joined the effort to extinguish the fire.
- No injuries have been reported to date.
- Approximately 232 residents were displaced as a result of the fire.
Official Actions and Impact
Town Manager Paul Bockelman declared a state of emergency, urging residents to limit water use to essential needs only, to support firefighting efforts.
"Over a million gallons of water has been used so far to extinguish the fire and officials say it will take days to recover the town's water levels."
The fire remains active but is under control, with crews expected to stay on site overnight to monitor the situation.
Summary
This major fire at the Olympia Place complex has displaced hundreds and prompted urgent water conservation measures while emergency teams continue to contain the blaze.