Birmingham, January 28, 2026
A family in Birmingham has lost their home due to a severe fire on Ethel Avenue, which caused extensive damage. This incident is part of a series of fires the Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service has responded to recently. The affected family faces displacement amid cold weather, highlighting the community’s ongoing challenges with fire safety in older neighborhoods. Investigations into the causes are underway as residents report frequent fires in the area, potentially linked to electrical issues.
Birmingham
A Birmingham family has been left without a home today after a devastating fire engulfed their residence on Ethel Avenue, located on the edge of the Powderly and Mason City neighborhoods. The intense flames caused extensive damage, destroying the roof and windows of the home and even spreading to the surrounding grass. The family is now facing the challenge of displacement amidst frigid temperatures. This incident marks one of several significant fires that Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service crews have responded to across the city within the last 48 hours.
The fire on Ethel Avenue, which emergency responders brought under control earlier this afternoon, has rendered the property uninhabitable. Residents in the area have frequently observed fires in the neighborhood, suggesting potential electrical issues within many of the older homes built in the vicinity. The significant damage from the blaze underscores the immediate need for support for the affected family.
In a separate incident on Monday morning, January 27, 2026, a firefighter sustained injuries while battling a house fire in Pratt City. Emergency crews from Birmingham Fire and Rescue responded to the blaze shortly after 8 a.m. in the area of 8th Street and Avenue F. Thick gray smoke was seen billowing from the home, and flames were observed shooting through the roof. Firefighters utilized a ladder truck to combat the fire from above. The injured firefighter was transported to the hospital for observation, though no further details regarding the extent of their injuries or their current condition have been released by the department.
Later the same day, another house fire broke out in Birmingham’s Woodlawn community. Responders were called to a home on 47th Place North around 4:10 p.m. on January 27, 2026. This fire resulted in one individual being hospitalized. The extent of the person’s injuries remains unknown at this time. Video footage from the scene indicated that the roof of the house had collapsed, and the interior of the structure was heavily scorched. Firefighters deployed a ladder truck to address the intense blaze, which had largely been extinguished by approximately 5:30 p.m., although the house appeared destroyed.
These recent events highlight the critical and continuous efforts of the Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service, often working in challenging conditions, to protect the lives and property of city residents. The swift response to these multiple incidents within a short timeframe demonstrates the dedication of emergency personnel. The community is reminded of the importance of fire safety measures and vigilance, especially in areas where older infrastructure may present increased risks. Ongoing investigations into the causes of these fires are expected to provide further clarity on how such incidents can be prevented in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Birmingham on Ethel Avenue?
A Birmingham family was forced from their home today, January 28, 2026, after a devastating fire on Ethel Avenue.
What was the extent of the damage to the Ethel Avenue home?
The Ethel Avenue home sustained extensive damage, with the roof and windows destroyed, and even the surrounding grass catching fire.
Were there any injuries in the Ethel Avenue fire?
The provided information does not mention any injuries to the family in the Ethel Avenue fire.
What caused the fire on Ethel Avenue?
Neighbors report frequent fires in the Powderly and Mason City neighborhoods, suggesting potential electrical issues in many older homes in the area, though the specific cause of this fire is under investigation.
When and where did the Pratt City fire occur?
A house fire occurred on Monday morning, January 27, 2026, shortly after 8 a.m., in the area of 8th Street and Avenue F in Pratt City.
Was anyone injured in the Pratt City fire?
One firefighter was injured and transported to the hospital for observation after battling the Pratt City fire.
When and where did the Woodlawn community fire occur?
A house fire occurred on January 27, 2026, around 4:10 p.m., on 47th Place North in Birmingham’s Woodlawn community.
Was anyone hospitalized due to the Woodlawn community fire?
One person was taken to the hospital following the Woodlawn community fire, though the extent of their injuries is unknown.
What was the condition of the home after the Woodlawn community fire?
The house on 47th Place North appeared destroyed, with reports indicating the roof had collapsed and the interior was heavily scorched.
Summary of Recent Birmingham Fire Incidents (January 27-28, 2026)
| Incident | Date and Time | Location | Impact | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ethel Avenue House Fire | January 28, 2026, afternoon | Ethel Avenue, Powderly and Mason City neighborhoods | Family displaced, home destroyed. | Roof and windows destroyed, grass caught fire. Neighbors note frequent fires due to potential electrical issues. |
| Pratt City House Fire | January 27, 2026, after 8 a.m. | 8th Street and Avenue F, Pratt City | One firefighter injured and hospitalized for observation. | Thick smoke, flames through the roof. Ladder truck used. No update on firefighter’s condition. |
| Woodlawn Community House Fire | January 27, 2026, around 4:10 p.m. | 47th Place North, Woodlawn community | One person hospitalized (extent of injuries unknown). Home destroyed. | Roof collapsed, interior scorched. Ladder truck used. |
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