Russia: Authorities responding to fire at shopping mall in Balashikha the morning of Dec. 12

Event

Authorities are responding to a large fire at the Stroypark shopping mall in Balashikha the morning of Dec. 12. The cause of the blaze is unclear. Initial reports indicate one person was injured in the blaze.

Heightened security and localized business and transport disruptions are likely over the coming hours as emergency response and investigations continue.

Balashikha is around 20 km (12 miles) east of central Moscow.

Context

This is the second major shopping mall fire in three days. On Dec. 9, a blaze severely damaged the Mega shopping mall in Khimki, 20 km (12 miles) northwest of central Moscow, and around 40 km (25 miles) from this latest fire in Balashikha.

Advice

Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Heed all officials' instructions. Plan for localized transport and business disruptions. Seek alternative routes and allow additional travel time to reach destinations if operating near the affected area. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is heavy, 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.