Else Beekman
A large fire broke out on Tuesday at the Tedi shop on Avenida del Puerto in Valencia, triggering widespread alarm and forcing the evacuation of around 200 people. Thick black smoke billowed across the area, prompting memories of the tragic Campanar fire earlier this year.
Emergency services evacuated five residential buildings, a nursery school, the municipal library, and several shops as flames spread rapidly. At least 20 people suffered smoke inhalation, with 16 taken to hospitals including La Fe, Clínico, General and Doctor Peset.
Fire sparks explosions and panic
Shortly after midday, police and firefighters arrived at the scene. Their immediate concern was the proximity of a petrol station and the safety of residents in the upper floors.
Witnesses reported to Las Provincias hearing several explosions as the blaze intensified, forcing officers to extend the security perimeter along Avenida del Puerto and adjacent streets. Traffic was cut off in both directions, causing severe congestion throughout the afternoon.
According to local reports, staff in the shop raised the alarm and urged customers to flee. “Run, run!” employees shouted as smoke began to fill the premises. One shopper said her friend escaped within minutes thanks to the quick actions of staff.
Emergency teams battle flames for hours
The fire, which started in an area undergoing refurbishment, spread swiftly through the building. Plastic materials, cardboard and exposed wiring are thought to have contributed to the rapid escalation, although the exact cause remains under investigation.
Ten fire crews from Valencia City Council worked for more than two hours to contain the flames. The fire created a chimney effect through skylights above the affected supermarket, making it harder to extinguish.
Meanwhile, the Emergency Information and Coordination Centre (CICU) deployed four medical teams to assist the injured. Local police used loudspeakers to warn nearby residents to keep windows closed to avoid inhaling smoke.
Evacuations and overnight shelters
Several establishments, including a supermarket, two bars and a bank branch, were cleared. Some residents were able to leave before the fire spread to the facade, while others remained confined in their homes until firefighters reached them.
Darío Martín, who lives on Calle Peris Brell, said he heard two explosions and saw thick smoke from his window. He began knocking on neighbours’ doors to alert them, including one flat where a 14-year-old boy was alone. Firefighters later evacuated the teenager safely.
After the fire was finally extinguished, crews spent hours cooling hotspots and ventilating the affected areas. Police set up patrols to prevent looting in evacuated buildings.
Many displaced residents found temporary shelter with friends and relatives. Others waited at the nearby Hotel DWO Valencia for clearance to return home.
Valencia’s mayor, María José Catalá, visited the site to monitor the response alongside emergency officials and government representatives. The City Council announced plans to open a dedicated support centre for those affected at the Ayora Popular University on Wednesday morning.