Huge fire breaks out at block of flats forcing residents to flee their homes

Emergency services are fighting a huge fire at a block of flats as people inside were evacuated from the building.

The blaze broke out earlier this evening and members of the pubic have been urged to stay away from the area. Several people have shared videos of the scene, showing huge flames in the night's sky. Police Scotland have set up a rest area nearby for those affected by the blaze. Seven fire crews, as well as specialist appliances, are currently at the scene.

A spokesman said: "Emergency services are in attendance at a building fire on Francis Street, Lochgelly. Officers are assisting with a number of road closures and diversions are in place. Please avoid the area if possible.

"Some residents have been evacuated and a rest centre has been set up at the Lochgelly Centre on Bank Street for anyone affected. Local residents are urged to keep windows and doors closed due to smoke."

It is understood the alarm was raised at 7pm when members of the public spotted flames coming from the top floor. Several people on social media shared concerns for the welfare of those who lived in the building, and nearby. One witness told the Courier: He said: “I could see the flames and the orange glow that lit up the sky from as far away as Cowdenbeath.

Holiday family return to find everything they own - even cat - destroyed in fire

The huge fire broke out earlier tonight at the black of flats (Twitter)

It is unknown if anyone was injured in the incident (Twitter)

“As I arrived in the town there were at least three pumps in Mains Street as well as several more in Francis Street too. The roof was a mass of flames. Flames were coming out of a top floor window and the roof was well engulfed in flames too.”

One person wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: "A FaceTime from my mum and dad showing me the massive fire that’s currently going on in Lochgelly! Absolutely devastating to see and hope everyone involved is safe." Another added: "Fire in Lochgelly tonight. Hopefully everyone is ok."

Fire Council's Emergency Resilience Team are said to be at the scene to help those affected find temporary accommodation.