Around 20 ‘spot fires’ break out overnight in the Flats, Cleveland official says (video)

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) - At least one witness said it looked like a scene from a horror movie.

Emergency crews responded to the Flats in Cleveland after receiving reports of fires overnight.

According to Lt. Mike Norman with the Cleveland Division of Fire, approximately 20 “spot fires” broke out near the Punch Bowl Social.

Winds at the time then whipped flames and embers to other dry mulch beds in the area.

Videos shared on social media showed the conditions.

Jack Webb watched the terrifying moments a fire was sparked in the East Bank of the Flats.

“Ashes flying everywhere from the mulch that was burning so it was scary,” he said.

It’s early in the investigation, but Lt. Norman said “careless smoking” may have been a contributing factor to the fires.

No injuries were reported, but several melted construction barrels and burnt leaves were seen in the aftermath.

It’s not known at this time if any cars parked near the fires were damaged.

Cleveland Fire crews will remain near the Flats on Saturday to make sure nothing reignites in the area, Lt. Norman said.

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