Nine killed in Taiwan hospital fire

Tragedy struck in southern Taiwan as a fire at Pingtung County Hospital claimed the lives of nine individuals, according to reports from local media outlets. The incident occurred around 09:40 local time (01:00 GMT), coinciding with the landfall of Typhoon Krathon in the neighboring city of Kaohsiung. The timing of the fire amidst severe weather conditions posed significant challenges for emergency responders.

The heavy rain and strong winds associated with the typhoon complicated efforts to combat the blaze, making it more difficult for firefighters to gain control. Despite their efforts, the fire continued to rage for over three hours before it was finally extinguished. As of now, the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, though some sources have indicated that an electrical fault may have played a role in the incident.

Images captured during the event showed thick gray smoke billowing from one of the hospital buildings, highlighting the severity of the situation. In response to the emergency, approximately 300 patients were evacuated from the facility. Many of them sought refuge in a nearby commercial establishment as the situation unfolded.

Additionally, soldiers from a nearby military base were deployed to assist firefighters in their efforts to control and extinguish the flames. This collaborative response underscores the urgency and seriousness of the incident, as authorities work to ensure the safety of patients and staff amid the chaos. As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of life in this devastating event.