A fire near Clemson University has left more than 30 students without housing.
Flames broke out at the Village Green Apartments off Highway 123 and Highway 28 just after 5 p.m. on Wednesday.
Firefighters on the scene said flames started outside one of the buildings near a bush and burned up the side quickly, spreading to 12 units.
Clemson police had to shut down Highway 123 for a short time in order for emergency vehicles to get to the fire.
A university spokesperson said the 32 students affected are mostly international students.
Firefighters were still at the scene Wednesday night, monitoring the building and keeping an eye out for hotspots.
"The whole roof was ablaze within 10 minutes of the first sign of smoke," said Brian Baird. "I mean it was gone."
"Actually, it didn't look like it could create such a disaster," said Nitendra Nath.
Clemson officials said the students were staying with friends and would have their visas on Monday.
Officials are investigating the cause of the fire.
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