A fire broke out at a laboratory building on the University of South Florida St. Petersburg campus on Saturday, leading to evacuations of people from the affected structure.

The blaze occurred at a science laboratory facility and generated thick smoke visible from the surrounding area. Fire department crews responded to the incident, which was classified as a two-alarm fire.

Authorities confirmed that people were safely evacuated from the building during the emergency response. The fire department worked to contain the blaze and prevent its spread to adjacent structures on the campus.

The incident raised concerns about potential damage to research materials and equipment housed within the laboratory facility. The full extent of any losses to ongoing research projects or scientific equipment has not yet been determined.

University officials have not released details about the cause of the fire or provided damage assessments. The investigation into the origin of the blaze is ongoing as emergency responders continue their work at the scene.