In a precautionary measure, the police have decided to extend the stay and access ban for the areas of Sukkertoppen, Tueneset, Hessa, and Skarbøvika until March 21. This decision follows concerns raised that the recent fire, which ignited in the Hessa/Sukkertoppen area, may have caused alterations in the mountain structures that require a geological assessment. Operations leader Ragnvald Knut Rasmussen has noted that there are risks associated with the potential instability of the terrain.

The fire erupted on Tuesday afternoon and rapidly spread, making firefighting efforts challenging due to adverse weather conditions. The urgency of the situation prompted the authorities to evacuate nearly 300 residents to ensure their safety from the fire's advancing threat to nearby buildings. Fortunately, as of Thursday, those evacuated were allowed to return to their homes with no reported injuries or damages to property.

The extension of the access ban reflects the authorities' commitment to ensuring public safety, emphasizing the need for thorough geological investigations before allowing individuals to return to these potentially hazardous areas. The recent events in Ålesund highlight the unexpected dangers posed by wildfires, particularly in geologically sensitive locations. The community is now grappling with the implications of natural events and the requirement for vigilance in disaster preparedness as they assess the aftermath of the fire.