Significant Blaze Erupts at Shipbuilding Facility in Northwestern Russia

A substantial fire has engulfed a shipbuilding facility located in the northwestern region of Karelia, as reported by local authorities on Thursday morning. The incident was first detected at approximately 9:50 a.m. local time and rapidly expanded to cover an area of around 1,500 square meters (16,146 square feet), according to emergency services.

The fire originated at the Onega Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Plant in Petrozavodsk, a facility known for the construction and maintenance of cargo vessels, as well as smaller service boats, including tugboats and fishing vessels.

According to regional officials, the blaze was triggered by an exploding gas cylinder. The head of the Republic of Karelia, Artur Parfenchikov, announced via his Telegram channel that the fire was completely extinguished by 12:26 p.m. local time.

In terms of casualties, three individuals sustained injuries during the incident, although thankfully, there were no fatalities. Reports indicate that two of the injured parties are currently on ventilators and in critical condition.

In response to the fire, the local prosecutor's office has initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the blaze and to assess any potential safety violations.

The Onega Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Plant plays a vital role in the regional economy, contributing to both the maritime industry and local employment. The incident raises concerns regarding safety protocols and emergency readiness at industrial sites, particularly in sectors involving hazardous materials.

As the investigation unfolds, further updates are anticipated regarding the causes of the fire, the condition of the injured, and any measures that may be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.