Fire Engulfs Lehigh Valley Hospital in Dickson City, Pennsylvania

On the night of February 4, 2026, a significant fire broke out at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Dickson City, Pennsylvania, prompting the evacuation of 77 patients. The blaze was reported around 9:40 p.m. and originated from the roof of the hospital's Orthopedic Institute, an older structure attached to the newer hospital building. Emergency crews, including the Dickson City Fire Department and multiple neighboring fire companies, responded swiftly to the scene, battling flames that were visible from the rooftop. All patients, staff, and visitors were safely evacuated without reported injuries.

Fire damages roof of Pennsylvania hospital; 77 patients evacuatedEmergency crews evacuate patients and battle blaze at Pennsylvania hospitalFire at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Dickson City, Pennsylvania, prompts dozens of evacuationsFire heavily damages Lehigh Valley Hospital-Dickson City, 77 patients evacuated, no one hurt

According to Lackawanna County Emergency Management Director Tom Taylor, six of the evacuated patients were in intensive care. The fire was contained to the outpatient orthopedic area, which has been declared a total loss. While there was no active fire within the main hospital building, smoke and water damage affected several floors. Firefighters utilized a defensive strategy to prevent the fire from spreading to the main hospital, aided by a firewall designed to contain such incidents. By midnight, the main fires had been extinguished, although crews remained on-site to address hot spots.

Fire heavily damages Lehigh Valley Hospital-Dickson City, 77 patients evacuated, no one hurtFire damages roof of Pennsylvania hospital; 77 patients evacuatedFire at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Dickson City, Pennsylvania, prompts dozens of evacuationsEmergency crews evacuate patients and battle blaze at Pennsylvania hospital

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro expressed his support for the affected individuals, stating, “Lori and I are praying for the staff, patients, their families, and the entire community tonight.” U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan Jr., whose district includes Dickson City, commended the first responders for their effective actions during the crisis. Local officials, including State Representative Bridget Kosierowski, praised the collaborative efforts of hospital staff and emergency responders, highlighting the importance of community support during such emergencies.

Emergency Crews Evacuate Patients and Battle Blaze at Pennsylvania Hospital

While the immediate response was largely praised, concerns have been raised regarding the hospital's preparedness for such incidents. Critics argue that the rapid evacuation of patients, particularly those in critical condition, highlights potential gaps in emergency protocols. The ongoing investigation into the fire's cause may also lead to scrutiny regarding safety measures in place at the facility.

Emergency Crews Evacuate Patients and Battle Blaze at Pennsylvania Hospital

The Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal is currently investigating the cause of the fire. Hospital officials have not yet provided a timeline for when the main hospital will reopen, as assessments of the damage continue. Meanwhile, local hospitals, including Geisinger Community Medical Center and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, have begun caring for the displaced patients.

Nearly 80 patients transferred after hospital fire in Dickson City

• “Everybody is safe,” — Rich Chowanec, Dickson City Fire Chief

Fire heavily damages Lehigh Valley Hospital-Dickson City, 77 patients evacuated, no one hurt

• “Deep gratitude goes to the first responders and hospital teams whose swift, professional actions ensured the safety and well-being of everyone involved,” — Rob Bresnahan Jr., U.S. Representative

Emergency crews evacuate patients and battle blaze at Pennsylvania hospital

• “I think these patients are in shock,” — Bridget Kosierowski, State Representative

Fire heavily damages Lehigh Valley Hospital-Dickson City, 77 patients evacuated, no one hurt

The incident underscores the critical role of emergency services and the importance of community resilience in the face of unforeseen disasters.

Emergency Crews Evacuate Patients and Battle Blaze at Pennsylvania Hospital