A major three-alarm fire tore through Portland’s historic Custom House Wharf on Friday evening, sending heavy smoke over the Old Port and prompting a large emergency response near Commercial Street. The fire was reported around 6 p.m. and quickly grew intense enough to threaten nearby waterfront businesses, including restaurants and fish market areas along the wharf.
Firefighters battled the blaze in rainy conditions, working to contain flames and protect adjacent buildings. By roughly 7:15 p.m., crews had knocked down the main body of the fire, though the scene remained active as responders monitored hot spots and secured the area.
Officials indicated that no injuries were reported in the initial response. Nearby businesses also relayed that people were safely evacuated as the fire spread. Authorities urged the public to avoid the Old Port waterfront area while emergency operations continued through the night.
The cause of the fire has not been confirmed, and investigators were expected to continue working on scene as conditions allowed. A briefing and additional updates were anticipated Saturday morning as more details became available. For the latest confirmed developments, see local reporting from Maine Public.
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