40 evacuated in Woodlands HDB fire

SINGAPORE — A fire completely engulfed the bedroom of a Woodlands flat on Thursday (May 11) evening, spreading up to the level above it before being put out.

The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said they were alerted to the fire at around 8.11pm at Blk 818 Woodlands Street 82. SCDF added that the fire broke out on the fifth floor.

About 40 residents were evacuated with no injuries reported, said the SCDF.

Eyewitnesses TODAY spoke to said that the fire was put out at around 9.20pm. 

Videos circulating online showed a large group of people gathered in front of the block to watch the fire, with flames leaping out of the bedroom’s window.

(Above: The aftermath of the fire which engulfed the bedroom of a flat at Blk 818 Woodlands Street 82. Photo: Wee Teck Hian/TODAY)

(Above: Residents gather under a block after a fire broke out on the fifth floor bedroom of a flat at Blk 818 Woodlands Street 82. Photo: Wee Teck Hian/TODAY)

Theodore Low, a 14-year-old resident of a neighbouring block, said the fire subsequently spread upwards to the unit immediately above it.

Another eyewitness, Mahalashmi, said the fire tripped the electricity for the entire block.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

(Above: Residents gather in front of a block where a fire broke out on the fifth floor bedroom of a flat at Blk 818 Woodlands Street 82. Photo: Wee Teck Hian/TODAY)