More than 60 children evacuated after fire breaks out at Russia’s summer camp

More than 60 children were evacuated from a summer health camp in Russia’s Trans-Baikal region after a fire broke out on the premises, regional emergency authorities said.

The blaze erupted at the “Champion” children's health camp, located on the shores of Lake Arakhlei, prompting an emergency evacuation of campers and staff, Russian media reports. 

According to the regional branch of Russia’s Ministry of Emergency Situations, a total of 71 people were evacuated, including 63 children and eight adults.

Firefighters arriving at the scene found one of the camp’s buildings engulfed in flames. Emergency crews quickly contained the fire to an area of approximately 200 square meters (2,150 square feet).

The fire was fully extinguished after about two and a half hours. Authorities said 24 firefighters and 11 fire engines were involved in the operation.

No casualties or injuries were immediately reported.

By Sabina Mammadli