Whatcom Middle School Fire,Whatcom Middle School

Whatcom Middle School Fire,Whatcom Middle School: A fire the broke out about 1 a.m. Thursday at Whatcom Middle School in Bellingham burned until dawn, causing the roof and parts of the 106-year-old building to collapse.

Whatcom Middle School Fire,Whatcom Middle School:A fire the broke out about 1 a.m. Thursday at Whatcom Middle School in Bellingham burned until dawn, causing the roof and parts of the 106-year-old building to collapse.

A strong wind fanned the flames. Fire Chief Bill Boyd told The Bellingham Herald firefighters warned neighbors downwind to watch for firebrands.

Boyd says firefighters did a quick search of the school and found no one inside before they were forced to withdraw.

No word yet on the cause of the fire.

School District spokeswoman Tonya Rowe said the building was undergoing a seismic retrofit.

Police Lt. Rick Sucee said roofers were seen welding as late as 10:30 p.m. Wednesday.

The district is looking for other class space for the 580 students.

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On the Net:

http://www.bsd501.org.

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Information from: The Bellingham Herald, http://www.bellinghamherald.com