Pella firefighters battled a multi-structure blaze on Washington Street just off the square this morning.

Crews from Pella Fire, Pella Ambulance, and Pella Police were on scene from 2:45 a.m. until 8:15 a.m., after nearly nine inches of snow had fallen in the area. Oskaloosa and Monroe were paged for mutual aid, and Oskaloosa has responded with an aerial truck and manpower. City of Pella Public Works department plows and Electric department workers, as well as Alliant Energy, were also assisting.

Pella Fire Chief Randy Bogaard says those inside the building at 813 Washington Street were able to escape. Occupants of nearby attached buildings were evacuated. Two individuals were transported by Pella Ambulance to Pella Regional Health Center for evaluation, although their injuries appear to be non-life threatening.

An interview with Pella Fire Chief Randy Bogaard (updated at 8:30 a.m.):