Taiwan Hospital Fire Claims Nine Lives Amid Typhoon Krathon
A tragic scene unfolded in southern Taiwan as a fire engulfed Pingtung county hospital, resulting in the loss of nine lives, as reported by local media.
The incident occurred at approximately 09:40 local time (01:00 GMT) while Typhoon Krathon slammed into the neighboring city of Kaohsiung, adding an extra layer of challenge to the already dire situation.
Amidst the wet and windy weather conditions, the fire response efforts were further complicated, making it a race against time for emergency responders.
Officials managed to extinguish the fire after more than three hours of relentless efforts, but the cause of the blaze remains shrouded in mystery as investigations are still ongoing.
Initial reports hinted towards a possible electrical fault as the trigger for the devastating fire that claimed lives and caused chaos within the hospital premises.
Witnesses captured images of thick grey smoke billowing from the hospital building, painting a grim picture of the intensity of the fire that ravaged through the facility.
In a swift evacuation operation, around 300 patients were rescued from the blaze, with some seeking refuge at a nearby commercial establishment as the emergency unfolded.
Adding to the rescue efforts, soldiers from a nearby military base joined forces with firefighters to combat the inferno, showcasing solidarity in the face of tragedy. — BBC
