A two-alarm fire erupted at the University of South Florida’s marine science research facility in St. Petersburg on Saturday, with footage capturing green flames leaping from the building.
The blaze started in the university’s marine science research institute. Witnesses reported seeing the fire from a distance, according to local news.
Approximately 200 firefighters and multiple units responded to the scene to combat the fire. St. Petersburg Fire District Chief Michael Lewis mentioned that crews would be monitoring the site throughout the night.
“We’re addressing some hot spots. We’re also assessing the hazardous materials present. It’s going to be a lengthy process to ensure there’s no active fire impacting any hazards,” he explained.
Video clips showed green flames shooting from the building’s roof as alarms sounded.
Witnesses reported seeing smoke from several miles away, and officials stated that it would take time to confirm if there had been any chemical leaks inside the building.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and everyone was accounted for after the fire was brought under control.
“The fire only impacted the Marine Science Institute, and no damage occurred to the broader Marine Institute. Classes will proceed as normal on Monday,” stated a local news article.
As reported by another outlet, the affected building is over 80 years old.
Aerial footage captured the extent of the fire as smoke filled the air.
A witness named Ashley Briscoe recounted how she was leaving a nearby building when she realized the fire was happening.
“I was right next to the building. They were warning us that it could collapse. As we left, we were told to hurry because the structure might fall. It was really frightening,” she recalled.
Another clip showed emergency vehicles arriving at the scene with their sirens going.
Chief Lewis reassured the community that there was no threat to the surrounding area and noted that while the roof of the lab was entirely destroyed, water damage had also occurred.
An investigation into the cause of the fire is set to begin.
