Some 77 patients - including six from intensive care - at the Lehigh Valley Medical Center in Dickson City were evacuated late Wednesday night and into early Thursday morning following a major fire that started on the roof of an adjacent older building that was formerly known as Scranton Orthopedics.

The fire destroyed the orthopedic wing of the medical center, fire officials said. 

As of Thursday afternoon, the hospital said on its website that the facility remained closed temporarily Some firefighters remained at the scene to put out any hot spots. 

The evacuated patients were transported to surrounding hospitals and care facilities, including Geisinger facilities.  

As of Thursday morning, five patients were listed in fair condition, three in good condition and one in critical condition, according to The Associated Press.

Firefighters and emergency management technicians from multiple responding agencies from a 50-mile radius responded. 

The hospital said in a statement on Thursday that the center “was immediately evacuated in coordination with emergency responders,” adding that “all patients, colleagues and visitors safely exited the building. “

Many locals who posted on social media applauded the response and rescue effort with some noting that it was incredible that no one was killed or seriously injured. 

Dickson City Fire Department Chief Richard Chowanec 

said the department was dispatched at around 9:40 pm along with other first alarm companies. 

He said that Lackawanna County EMA and Pennsylvania State Police arrived at the scene to help with the daunting task of evacuating patients and staff. 

Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal Unit will be conducting the origin and cause of the fire.

Individuals seeking to reunite with family members or loved ones should call the hospital’s dedicated information line at 610‑402‑0498.