A significant fire has engulfed a residential tower block in North Lanarkshire, prompting a large-scale emergency response and the evacuation of residents.
Emergency Response in Full Swing
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was alerted to the blaze at Calder Court in Whifflet, Coatbridge, shortly before 6:45am on Friday, 19 December 2025. Firefighters raced to the scene following multiple emergency calls reporting flames at the high-rise building, located to the east of Glasgow.
To combat the intense fire, crews have deployed a substantial fleet of resources. The service confirmed that 11 fire engines and one height vehicle are currently in operation, working to contain and extinguish the flames. The height vehicle is crucial for accessing the upper levels of the tower block.
Resident Safety the Top Priority
The primary focus for the emergency services has been ensuring the safety of all residents. A full evacuation of the affected tower block was swiftly initiated as a precautionary measure. While the exact number of people displaced is not yet confirmed, local authorities are understood to be assisting those affected.
Road closures are in place around the Whifflet area to allow emergency vehicles unimpeded access. Residents living nearby are being advised to keep their windows and doors closed due to smoke emanating from the site.
Ongoing Investigation and Aftermath
As firefighters continue their efforts to fully dampen down the fire, the cause of the outbreak remains unknown. An investigation will be launched once the scene is made safe. The scale of the damage to the property is also yet to be assessed.
This incident highlights the critical work of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the challenges of managing emergencies in high-density residential buildings. Community support services are now mobilising to provide aid to the evacuated families in Coatbridge.
