Firefighters late Saturday continued to battle a massive fire that engulfed a Home Depot near Oakridge Mall in South San Jose.
The fire started at around 5:30 p.m. Saturday. A large plume of thick, black smoke from the blaze on the 900 block of Blossom Hill Road can be seen for miles in the South Bay.
Firefighters said a pet hospital nearby has also been evacuated and anyone looking to reunite with pets should go to Golfland on Winfield.
Our SkyRanger flew over the massive fire at the Home Depot in South San Jose as firefighters continued to battle it Saturday night.
Wagly Veterinary Hospital and Pet Campus employee Sam Arshop said he sprang into action, rounding up 13 dogs in just two minutes and driving them to safety in his own car.
“It happened so fast. It went from everything normal to smoke filling. Up and not being able to breathe. It happened so quick but in those moments you thinking, ‘I have to get as many animals out as I can,” he said.
Employees rescued all the animals, an estimated 60 of them.
According to the San Jose Fire Department, 30 employees and dozens of customers got out safely. But officials added the Home Depot is a total loss.
There were no reports of the fire spreading to an adjacent neighborhood.
Fire officials added that they received reports that the fire may have started near the lumber section but they are still investigating the origin of the fire.
San Jose fire said no injuries have been reported.
NBC Bay Area crews were the on scene as they reported seeing parts of the roof caving in.
San Jose fire said they are asking residents and workers in the area to shelter in place due to the fire and smoke. Fire officials added that nearby residents need to close all doors and windows to minimize smoke from getting inside their homes.
Firefighters said they will continue to battle the fire overnight.
It’s unknown at this time when the fire will be under control.
The Santa Clara County Fire Department were assisting in the response and providing mutual aid.
Video from Twitter user Phillip Hurst shows large flames from inside the store.
Firefighters late Saturday battled a massive, five-alarm fire at a Home Depot near the Oakridge Mall in South San Jose.
This story is developing. Check back for updates.