Skyscraper fire in Astana prompts evacuations and road closures

Recordings of a skyscraper fire in the capital of Kazakhstan, Astana, have surfaced online. One section of the 26-story building can be seen engulfed in flames. The firefighting operation is ongoing, and no confirmed information about casualties exists.

According to the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the outer facade of the "Rixos Khan Shatyr Residences" on Turan Avenue caught fire.

Authorities will investigate the cause of the fire and implement increased security measures in the coming hours. Due to the ongoing firefighting operation, local transportation disruptions, including road closures, are also possible. The authorities may order the evacuation of neighbouring buildings.

At least eight people have been evacuated from the burning building. So far, there have been no reports of fatalities or injuries in the fire.