An intense fire ripped through a classroom inside Rockland Children's Psychiatric Center in Orangeburg Thursday.

The snow possibly saved lives since staff members and children were not at the center. On any other day there would have been about 200 children and staff members inside the building.

Orangetown volunteer firefighters were notified of the fire by the alarm system and security staff at the center. Fire officials say the flames were so intense it knocked out a window and melted the lighting system. The cause of the fire is under investigation.