Crime & Safety
Numerous Norristown Residents Displaced After Devastating Electrical Fire
A large tree fell into electrical wires Wednesday, sending several homes in the area up in flames.
NORRISTOWN, PA — Many residents were displaced after a powerful two-alarm fire damaged several homes in Norristown Wednesday.
The incident occurred at around noon on the 900 block of West Airy Street.
A large tree fell on to to a power line, causing the power lines to arc and spark flames in multiple homes below, according to fire officials.
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Crews from several nearby municipalities deployed four fire hose lines to bring the blaze under control. The fire was contained to the original structures, but significant damaged was caused.
W. Airy Street and Noble Street were shut down for hours as emergency response continued.
Find out what's happening in Norristownfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
No injuries were reported.
With many residents left without a home, the Red Cross set up a reception center at Aclamo to host them. That center was then moved to Blockson Middle School.
"At the shelter, Red Cross volunteers are providing a safe place to stay, meals and snacks, access to device charging, comfort and care items and emotional support," the Red Cross shared.
The shelter remained open until Thursday morning. The Red Cross says they are now working with the municipality and community organizations to determine the next steps needed for the victims.
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