Fire guts commercial warehouse in Choman district

SORAN — A fire tore through a commercial warehouse Sunday night in Erbil governorate’s Choman district, destroying three large shops and causing extensive financial damage, according to local officials and the warehouse owner. No injuries were reported.

The Soran Municipal Civil Defense told 964media the fire was brought under control after nearly two hours. “The owner believes it was likely caused by an electrical short,” a spokesperson said.

Rawand Hawdiani, a local resident, said the damage was severe. “Thankfully, there were no injuries,” he said.

The fire broke out in a building that housed electrical equipment, construction materials, and tourism goods. It started between the Maghrib and Isha prayer times, according to the owner, Amanj, who spoke to 964media.

“Thank God for everything — whatever happens is fate. The fire started while we were at the mosque for prayers,” Amanj said. “It likely came from an electrical short behind the warehouse, which was sealed. The municipal fire team and local residents all helped — they were exhausted but never held back.”

Amanj estimated the losses at around $150,000. The affected warehouse included three major shops selling electronics, agricultural supplies, and construction materials.