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A large-scale fire has been raging for several hours in the industrial zone of St. Petersburg at the warehouse complex of Wildberries, one of Russia’s largest online retailers. According to unofficial reports, the fire has engulfed about 50,000 square metres.
The fire started in the morning, and initially 83 rescuers and 20 pieces of equipment were involved in extinguishing it. However, the situation quickly deteriorated. As of this afternoon, the Russian Emergencies Ministry reports that 270 firefighters and 57 vehicles have been deployed. Rescuers continue to fight the fire, and the forces on the ground are being increased.
The cause of the fire has not been officially announced, but videos of black smoke rising above the burning hangars are actively circulating on social media. According to preliminary information, there were no casualties.
Wildberries is a key player in the online retail sector in Russia, known for its close ties to pro-Kremlin political circles. The loss of one of the company’s main logistics hubs could have implications for its operations in the coming weeks.
And while the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations is building a second “front line” near St. Petersburg – this time against fire – comments are already appearing online).
