A fast-moving fire destroyed more than 100 homes in the Krokstadelva neighbourhood of Drammen, southern Norway, on Friday afternoon, leaving over 400 residents homeless. No deaths or serious injuries have been reported, according to local authorities.

Norwegian police confirmed that the blaze began in a townhouse around 3:30 p.m. and spread rapidly through the densely built hillside, fuelled by dry vegetation, narrow streets, and strong winds. The Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB) described it as the largest residential fire in the country’s modern history. Evacuated residents were sheltered at a hotel converted into a crisis centre, while the fire chief of the Drammen region was among those who lost their homes. King Harald sent condolences, and Crown Prince Haakon was expected to visit the area.

While fire officials said the residential portion of the fire was under control by Saturday morning, the blaze continued to burn in adjacent forest, and some police statements indicated it was not yet fully extinguished. The cause remains undetermined. Police have dismissed speculation on social media of a terrorist link, stating they have a preliminary idea of where the fire started but that a technical investigation cannot begin until the site cools. Two people were treated for smoke inhalation, and several police officers and firefighters were exposed to smoke, but no residents were reported missing.

Unusually dry and hot weather in the region, combined with abundant dry vegetation and gas cylinders stored near homes, contributed to the fire’s intensity, local fire officials said. The investigation into the origin of the fire is ongoing, and authorities have appealed for early photographs and video from the public.