A fast-moving fire tore through a building on the campus of the University of South Florida in St. Petersburg on Saturday afternoon, sending thick plumes of smoke billowing into the sky and triggering a major emergency response.
St. Petersburg Fire Rescue crews rushed to the scene at 140 7th Avenue South, where flames could be seen shooting from the roof of a two-story structure.
The St. Pete Fire Department said the building was the USF Marine Science Lab.
Thick clouds of smoke were visible from miles around as they rose high above the area as firefighters worked to contain the blaze.
Officials confirmed the fire escalated to a second alarm, signaling the seriousness of the situation, with multiple units deployed and streets around the building sealed off as a precaution in case of a collapse.
Thick plumes of smoke could be seen rising above a commercial building near the University of South Florida St. Petersburg as a two-alarm fire prompted a major emergency response
Bright orange flames could be seen emanating from the roof of what’s believed to be the science building
The fire broke out close to the marine with flames visible behind the boats
Authorities say the structure, described as a non-residential commercial property, was evacuated quickly, and so far no injuries have been reported.
Emergency crews are still on site battling the flames, with the extent of the damage still unclear. Police described it as a hazmat situation.
The cause of the fire remained under investigation.
The smoke could be seen from some distance away
This is a breaking news story with updates to follow.