A significant fire erupted in a multi-family building in Östersund, necessitating the evacuation of around 20 people and sending four individuals to the hospital with unknown injuries.

The blaze, which began in an apartment, quickly spread to the roof and attic, prompting a change in tactics by the fire service to allow controlled burning of the affected areas.

Due to the severity of the fire and the resulting heavy smoke, authorities issued an important public announcement (VMA) advising residents of Östersund to close doors, windows, and ventilation systems.

The fire service's decision to let parts of the building burn down was based on a comprehensive assessment to prevent further water damage and because of a concrete layer protecting the apartments below.

Despite the intensified smoke production, officials clarified that the smoke was not more dangerous than typical fire smoke.