Chicago: Skyscraper Fire Forces EvacuationsChicago: Skyscraper Fire Forces Evacuations Chicago, IL – A massive fire erupted in a downtown Chicago skyscraper on Tuesday afternoon, forcing hundreds of occupants to evacuate and prompting a large-scale emergency response. The fire broke out on the 12th floor of the 52-story building located at 123 West Monroe Street. Firefighters arrived on the scene shortly after 2:30 p.m. local time to find heavy black smoke billowing from the building. Initial reports indicate that the fire may have started in an electrical closet. However, the exact cause is still under investigation. Hundreds of people inside the building were quickly evacuated as firefighters fought to contain the blaze. No injuries have been reported, but some occupants have complained of smoke inhalation. The fire has caused significant damage to the 12th floor and has spread to the 13th and 14th floors. Firefighters are working to prevent the fire from spreading further up the building. The Chicago Fire Department has closed down several streets surrounding the building as emergency vehicles work at the scene. Traffic in the area is heavily congested. The building is home to several businesses, including law firms, investment banks, and a fitness center. Many of the businesses in the building have been evacuated and operations have been suspended. The Office of Emergency Management and Communication (OEMC) has activated the city’s emergency operations center to coordinate the response. Emergency medical services, the police department, and other city agencies are assisting with the evacuation and firefighting efforts. The fire is a reminder of the importance of fire safety in high-rise buildings. The Chicago Fire Department encourages all building owners and occupants to have a fire safety plan in place and to practice evacuation drills regularly.