A two-alarm fire at a southwest Houston apartment complex displaced 50 people after fast-moving flames and hydrant failures challenged firefighters.
HOUSTON — A two-alarm fire early Thursday morning displaced approximately 50 people and forced firefighters to overcome major water supply challenges at an apartment complex in southwest Houston.
The fire started around 2:30 a.m. at the Jackson Square Apartments on Braesvalley Drive. Houston firefighters say they are not yet sure how the fire started, but the flames spread rapidly after reaching a common attic, allowing the fire to run “in all directions.”
No injuries, but major damage and structural concerns
Firefighters said no injuries were reported, but 20 units — both occupied and vacant — were evacuated, leaving about 50 residents displaced.
Officials also noted structural integrity issues caused by the combination of fire and water.
Hydrant failures created major obstacles
Crews faced significant challenges supplying water to fight the blaze. Firefighters had to run 1,000 feet of supply line because the nearest hydrant was not working, and there were no active hydrants on the property.
Flames intensified in shared attic space
The complex has a common attic, and once the fire reached it, firefighters said the flames quickly spread in multiple directions, contributing to extensive damage across the building.
What’s next
No residents were hurt, and investigators are working to determine how the fire began. Houston Fire Department crews remain at the scene assessing damage and monitoring structural concerns.
This fire marks at least the second time some residents say they’ve seen flames at the property, though Houston firefighters have not confirmed any previous incidents.
KHOU 11 will update this story as new details become available.