23 Apr 2024 | 10:32 PM UTC
Iraq: Large fire reported at Nishtiman market in Erbil as of early April 24
Emergency personnel responding to a large fire at Nishtiman market in Erbil, Iraq, as of early April 24. Avoid the area.
As of early April 24, authorities are responding to a large fire that ignited at the Nishtiman market in Erbil; the fire reportedly occurred late April 23. Officials have dispatched firefighting teams to the scene of the blaze. Authorities did not immediately report the cause of the fire or any associated casualties. Officials will likely provide updates on the situation over the coming hours.
The fire may noticeably worsen air quality in the surrounding area over the short term. Authorities will almost certainly keep a heightened security presence at the site until firefighters extinguish the blaze and authorities complete any subsequent investigative work. Transport and business disruptions are likely in the affected area over the coming hours. Officials may close local roads or issue evacuation orders for the immediate area on short notice to facilitate the emergency response and ensure public safety.
Avoid the incident site until the fire is extinguished and authorities vacate the scene. Seek alternative routes to circumvent the affected area and any disruptions. Consider remaining indoors if heavy smoke is in your area, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness, such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water. Heed all instructions issued by local officials.
