Fire at Limassol store (updated)

The ground floor of a department store in Limassol was destroyed by a fire on Saturday and authorities evacuated neighbouring homes as a precaution.

The fire in the Ayios Athanasios store, which sells home equipment, tools, and sanitary ware, started just after lunchtime and was put under control by 14 fire service engines and dozens of men.

The civil defence evacuated neighbouring homes as a precaution while electricity authority crews interrupted power in the area.

The blaze in the first floor was under control but fire fighters were having problems with the basement.

A spokesman said there was thick smoke and high temperatures in the large basement and efforts were underway to cool the area.

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