A large fire broke out this afternoon in the industrial area of Olbia, specifically at the Nautica Acqua shipyard located on via Madagascar. The blaze reportedly began on a boat stored inside the company's shed, which specializes in pleasure boats and luxury yachts.
As flames erupted, a massive column of black smoke rose into the sky, becoming visible throughout the city and alarming local residents. Firefighters from Olbia and nearby Arzachena quickly responded to the scene, working diligently to extinguish the flames and secure the area.
Emergency services, including ambulances and a helicopter ambulance (118), were dispatched to the location shortly after the fire broke out. Initial reports indicated that there was one injury, but further updates revealed that all ten workers present inside the facility at the time were able to evacuate safely without requiring medical attention.
According to eyewitness accounts, the fire began around 15:35 and spread rapidly, fueled by strong gusts of wind that exacerbated the situation. The exact cause of the fire remains unclear, although preliminary investigations suggest it may have originated from a short circuit or malfunction of the electrical system within the shipyard.
As firefighters battled the blaze, the area surrounding the Nautica Acqua shipyard was enveloped in thick smoke, prompting local authorities to temporarily block traffic along the main thoroughfare in the industrial zone. The smoke was reportedly visible from several kilometers away, drawing the attention of numerous onlookers.
By 17:00, the fire was still ongoing, with firefighters continuing their efforts to bring it under control. The Nautica Acqua shipyard, which houses approximately forty boats, has sustained significant damage. Fortunately, all personnel were accounted for, and no one inhaled smoke during the incident.
Local police and law enforcement agencies also arrived at the scene to assist with the emergency response and ensure public safety. As the situation unfolded, officials emphasized the importance of maintaining a secure perimeter around the site to facilitate firefighting operations.
Residents expressed their concerns over the incident, with many noting the rapid spread of the flames and the potential for further damage in the densely populated industrial area. "It's terrifying to see something like this happen so close to home," one local resident commented.
The Nautica Acqua shipyard is known for its work in the nautical sector, providing various services related to boat maintenance and storage. The incident has raised questions about safety protocols and fire prevention measures in similar facilities across the region.
As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, the local community is left to grapple with the aftermath of this alarming event. Officials have pledged to provide updates as more information becomes available, and they are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
This fire serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards associated with industrial operations, particularly in sectors involving heavy machinery and flammable materials. The swift response from emergency services has been commended, highlighting the importance of preparedness in the face of such emergencies.
In the meantime, residents of Olbia are urged to stay informed and heed any safety advisories issued by local authorities as the situation develops. The community's resilience will undoubtedly be tested as they recover from this incident and work towards ensuring such events are prevented in the future.
