A massive Christmas tree burst into flames during New Year’s celebrations on Russia’s largest island.
Thousands of people had gathered around the 80ft illuminated tree in Sakhalinsk, off the coast of eastern Russia, to see in 2018.
But they were left in shock when a column of flames erupted and surged upwards through the tree in Lenin Square.
Despite the dramatic inferno, musicians continued to play.
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Although it was an icy -6°C, the plastic tree was burned within minutes, leaving only its metal frame intact.
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By the time firefighters arrived on the scene the tree had been completely destroyed. A column of black smoke continued to spiral upwards.
Fortunately, according to The Siberian Times there have been no reports of injuries.
An investigation into the cause of the fire is now underway.
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METRO
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