Europa-Park fire: Massive blaze at Germany's biggest theme park as emergency crews descend on scene

A massive fire broke out at Germany's biggest theme park, sparking fears of casualties.



Dramatic footage shows flames and thick plumes of smoke rising into the air from the Europa amusement park in Rust this evening.



Clouds of smoke were seen from miles around as panic spread among visitors.



Witnesses said the flames reached 15m high and some rides were also on fire, according to Bild.de.



It is currently unclear how the blaze started but it is believed it began in a warehouse in the park before spreading to rides.



Flames 'destroyed' the 'The Pirates of Batavia' attraction and the 'Scandinavia' area at the theme park was evacuated.



The ride is described as a 'water-dark ride' and is said to be about 400m long.



Rehearsals for a popular show "Immer Wieder Sundays" were taking place in the grounds at the time with Swiss pop star Beatrice Egli present, according to reports.



The attraction is the largest theme park in the country and the second most popular in Europe, following Disneyland Paris in France.