Five houses have been reduced to charred shells after a serious fire broke out in Pantside, Newbridge, forcing residents to evacuate the surrounding streets.
The blaze ripped through the row of homes, leaving five properties completely destroyed. Emergency services rushed to the scene as the fire took hold, with nearby residents told to leave their homes as crews worked to bring the situation under control.
Neighbours described scenes of chaos as flames and smoke billowed from the properties. For many living on the street, there was little time to grab belongings before being moved on by emergency responders prioritising safety in the area.
Fire crews faced a significant challenge tackling the scale of the blaze, with multiple units called to the scene. The extent of the damage left behind tells its own story, with five homes now uninhabitable after being gutted by the fire.
The cause of the fire is yet to be confirmed, and investigations are expected to get underway once the scene is made safe. Authorities have not yet released details on whether anyone was injured during the incident.
For the families affected, the destruction is devastating. Losing a home to fire is one of the most traumatic experiences imaginable, and those displaced will now be facing an incredibly difficult period as they figure out what comes next.
Local authorities are expected to be working with those made homeless by the fire to arrange emergency accommodation and support in the coming hours and days.
The community in Newbridge has been left shaken by the scale of the incident, with Pantside residents hoping for answers as the investigation begins.
That’s absolutely devastating, hope everyone got out safe. Can’t imagine losing your home like that, especially just before Christmas. Thoughts with all the families affected 💔