In brief
A fire near an electricity substation in Auckland’s Penrose suburb injured three people, including one in serious condition, according to Xinhua. Firefighters deployed up to 12 engines and responded quickly, while power outages were reported in parts of the area. Health authorities warned that smoke could affect vulnerable populations.
Three people were injured Thursday when a fire erupted near an electricity substation in Auckland's Penrose suburb, with one in serious condition, Xinhua reported.
Thick black smoke was seen rising over the area as firefighters from several stations arrived on the scene; Radio New Zealand reported that up to 12 fire engines were deployed.
Ambulance service St John was notified at 3:29 p.m. local time and dispatched a rapid response unit, the service said.
Police officials stated they were advised of the fire on Thursday afternoon, noting that power outages were reported in parts of Penrose and that several intersections were without power.
Health New Zealand issued a public health alert warning that smoke could affect people with heart or lung conditions, pregnant women, young children and older adults.
The incident has prompted emergency services to coordinate their efforts quickly to contain the blaze and restore power to affected areas, while authorities monitor the conditions in the vicinity of the substation.
