A house and garage burned on Sotra Island outside Bergen on Thursday evening. Fire crews reported the blaze started around 5:02 PM.
The fire began in a garage containing parked electric vehicles before spreading to the adjacent house, according to police.
Emergency services from five stations rushed to the scene. They removed gas cylinders from nearby buildings and worked to extinguish the flames.
All three residents—an adult couple and one child—escaped unharmed. They evacuated quickly when the fire started.
Witnesses reported hearing loud bangs from the fire. One described sounds resembling gunshots.
Police advised area residents to close doors and windows due to heavy smoke. One neighboring home was evacuated after being engulfed in smoke.
By 6:14 PM, firefighters had contained the blaze and eliminated spreading risks. The garage where the fire originated was completely destroyed.
Fire crews managed to salvage some valuables at the owner's request. Parts of the house suffered total damage while approximately half remained standing.
Authorities will investigate whether electric vehicle batteries contributed to the blaze. Fire officials specifically noted they will examine battery stability.
The cause remains unknown, and police have opened a case. Investigators will remain on scene for further work.
The area will remain cordoned off as firefighters continue monitoring for hotspots.
This incident highlights the challenges emergency services face with electric vehicle fires, particularly regarding battery stability and containment.