Taiwan: At least 25 people dead due to building fire in Kaohsiung Oct. 14; rescue operations continue /update 1

Event

Rescue operations continue as of the afternoon of Oct. 14, following a fire at a multistorey building along Fubei Road, Kaohsiung. According to officials, 25 people died in the fire and at least 44 were injured; the casualty count is likely to rise in the coming hours as several other residents are feared to be trapped. The blaze - which started at approximately 03:00 - was controlled by emergency crews by around 07:00. The cause of the fire is unclear.

Authorities have deployed additional personnel in the area. Localized transport disruptions may last through Oct. 14. Operations at nearby facilities may face delays or interruptions. Lingering disruptions are possible until firefighting and investigations end.

Advice

Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes to circumvent the incident site. Allow additional time to reach destinations in the affected area through Oct. 14. Consider remaining indoors if affected by heavy smoke, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water. Heed all official instructions including evacuation notices.