By David Li, bostonese.com
Boston, March 26, 2013, — A nine-alarm file was reported this afternoon on Beacon Street between Fairfield and Exeter Streets tonight. Many users of WeChat shared the following news update on the popular mobile social media app just before the start of evening commute.
The day started with blizzard like conditions in Cape Cod. As the storm moved farther east than foretasted, there was not much snow in city of Boston. The strong wind associated with the storm may be the cause of the rapidly developing fire on Beacon street.
Boston emergency services officials confirmed that at least 17 people injured in the nine-alarm fire. WBZ news radio station reported that two firefighters have passed away fighting this fire.
The Boston Transportation Department is advising drivers to avoid the Back Bay during their evening commute home tonight.
• Due to a fire on Beacon Street between Fairfield and Exeter Streets, Beacon Street is closed from the intersection of Arlington Street past the intersection of Fairfield Street. At this time, Beacon Street at Massachusetts Avenue remains open.
• Storrow Drive Eastbound is closed at the Fenway/Kenmore Exit.
• Commuters are being allowed to turn right from Commonwealth to Berkeley Street onto Storrow Drive Eastbound.
• Storrow Drive Westbound is closed at Leverett Circle.