Flames engulf secondary school in northern Germany 140 firefighters on scene

In the early hours of November 2, a major fire broke out at a secondary school in Geesthacht, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, causing damage estimated in the millions of euros, Lübecker Nachrichten reports.

The alarm was raised around 05:50 local time (08:50 Baku time), with initial reports indicating that the building housing chemistry and physics classrooms was on fire. Around 140 firefighters responded to the incident.

Officials said the fire was prevented from spreading to the main building, but smoke engulfed nearly all floors and rooms. Residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed and turn off air conditioners. No injuries have been reported.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities are examining a theory that burglars may have started the blaze, following a recent break-in at the school.

Mayor Olaf Schulze said that much of the building will require extensive repairs and that authorities are working to ensure continuity of classes for the school’s nearly 1,000 students.