All students were evacuated from a Florida university building as a large fire broke out on campus.

Large Fire Damages Key University Building in Florida

A large fire significantly impacted a prominent science building at a Florida university on Saturday afternoon. The blaze, which erupted within the Marine Science Laboratory, sent substantial plumes of smoke into the atmosphere, prompting a rapid response from emergency services. Initial reports indicate the building, approximately 80 years old and a central component of the university’s marine science program, was fully engulfed by flames.

Firefighters from multiple agencies, including St. Petersburg Fire Rescue, mobilized to the scene, deploying over 200 personnel to combat the rapidly spreading fire. Flames were observed emerging from the roof of the two-story structure.

The incident quickly escalated, triggering a second alarm and necessitating the deployment of numerous additional units. Authorities established road closures and safety zones surrounding the building due to concerns about potential structural instability. University officials have confirmed the affected building was the Marine Science Laboratory.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. The extent of the damage and the potential loss of decades of research housed within the building are still being assessed. Further updates will be provided as they become available.

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