Massive fire at Stuttgart wholesale market prompts resident warnings, largest deployment in years
A massive fire broke out at a wholesale market in Stuttgart-Wangen late Friday, with over 150 firefighters battling flames that spread to multiple halls. No injuries were reported, and residents were warned to close windows.
Fire breaks out
On late Friday evening, a fire broke out at the wholesale market in Stuttgart-Wangen. The fire was reported around 22:40. Employees reported a deflagration and explosion, though the exact building is unclear. Upon arrival, firefighters found one warehouse hall fully engulfed in flames, which then spread to a second hall. The fire threatened to spread to additional halls.
Firefighting response
More than 150 firefighters from the professional and volunteer fire departments are on scene. Spokesman Daniel Anand described the fire as a "very extraordinary event" and the largest deployment in years. Firefighting is expected to continue through the night. Tanker trucks and vehicles with large hose reserves were brought in to ensure water supply. Trucks were moved away from the halls to minimize damage.
The Stuttgart fire department has not experienced a fire of this magnitude and a comparable large-scale operation in recent years. It is a very extraordinary event.
Warnings to residents
The fire department issued warnings via alert apps late Friday evening, advising residents in Wangen and adjacent districts to close windows and doors due to heavy smoke and odor. The warning area extends up to four kilometers. No injuries have been reported so far.
The wholesale market
The Großmarkt Stuttgart hosts more than 100 import and wholesale firms selling fresh produce like fruits and vegetables to hotels and restaurants, as well as flowers. The contents of the burning halls were initially unclear.
Ongoing situation
As of 2:30 AM, the fire was still not under control. The fire department stated that the primary task is to contain the fire. The flames are intense, and the operation is expected to last the entire night. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
