Fire at Natécia Maternity Hospital in Lyon: No Casualties, but Evacuations
Lyon, February 2, 2026 – A fire erupted early Monday morning at the maternity ward of the Natécia private hospital, located on Avenue Rockefeller in Lyon’s eighth arrondissement. The incident, which occurred at approximately 6:15 AM, prompted a rapid response from emergency services and resulted in the evacuation of dozens of people. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Swift Response by Firefighters
The fire, which was quickly brought under control, mobilized around thirty firefighters from the Rhône department. According to reports, the blaze originated in a section of the private hospital that was not actively in use at the time. The prompt intervention of the fire brigade was crucial in preventing the situation from escalating.
– “Upon arrival, we found a fire in a disused part of the maternity ward. Our immediate priority was to contain the flames and ensure the safety of patients and staff,” stated a spokesperson for the Rhône fire department.
Evacuation of Mothers and Babies
Despite the rapid control of the fire, a precautionary evacuation was deemed necessary due to the presence of smoke. Approximately 40 individuals, including new mothers and their babies, were safely moved from the affected area to other parts of the hospital or to alternative facilities. The hospital staff, in coordination with emergency personnel, managed the evacuation smoothly and efficiently, prioritizing the well-being of the vulnerable patients.
– “The evacuation process was handled with utmost care for the mothers and their newborns. We are relieved that everyone is safe and accounted for,” commented a hospital representative.
Smoke Management Ongoing
As of late Monday afternoon, firefighters remained on the scene, primarily engaged in managing and clearing the smoke that had spread throughout parts of the establishment. While the fire itself was extinguished, the lingering smoke posed a challenge, necessitating continued efforts to ensure the air quality within the hospital was safe for patients and staff to return to normal operations.
Investigation into the Cause
The exact cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Authorities will be examining the site to determine how the blaze started in the disused section of the maternity ward. Further details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses. The incident highlights the importance of stringent safety protocols in healthcare facilities, particularly in sensitive areas like maternity wards.
The Natécia private hospital is a significant healthcare provider in Lyon, and the disruption caused by the fire is being managed to minimize impact on patient care. The hospital has assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to restore full functionality and to prevent similar incidents in the future.
