A massive fire has broken out at one of Europe’s most popular theme parks, as families were reported fleeing the area.
Videos shared on social media showed huge black plumes of smoke erupting at Europa-Park in Rust, Germany and close to the French border, near one of its 13 roller coasters.
The cause of the blaze or any potential casualties are currently unknown, although shocked witnesses reported hearing “two bangs” before the smoke was spotted.
Reports suggest the fire is in the Austria-themed area of the park near an attraction known as the Diamond Cave.
Several families fled the park which was evacuated as emergency services work to bring the fire under control.
Police later reported the blaze, which was visible from several miles away, was under control.
A witness told German media outlet Bild: “It banged loudly two or three times.
“After that, a huge fire could be seen.”
One person, sharing an image of the fire on Twitter, said: “Just arrived at Europa theme park and it’s seriously on fire!”
Another user added: “Fire in #europapark , luckily we saw it just in time to leave the restaurant adjacent to the building.
“Hope all families and children are safe.”
The fire broke out shortly before the park was due to close for the day.
The incident is the second fire at the popular theme park following similar scenes in 2018.
Witnesses at the time said the flames reached 15m high and some rides were also on fire, according to Bild.de.
It was unclear how the blaze started but it was believed it began in a warehouse in the park before spreading to rides.
Flames 'destroyed' the 'The Pirates of Batavia' attraction and the 'Scandinavia' area at the theme park was evacuated.
The ride is described as a 'water-dark ride' and is said to be about 400m long.
Rehearsals for a popular show "Immer Wieder Sundays" were taking place in the grounds at the time with Swiss pop star Beatrice Egli present, according to reports.
More than six million people visited the park last year, mainly from Germany, France and Switzerland.
