South Africa: Structure fire results in at least 60 casualties in Marshalltown, Johannesburg CBD, early Aug. 31 /update 1

Event

Emergency services continue to respond to a building fire in central Johannesburg early Aug. 31. At least 60 people are dead and 40 others injured in the fire. The building, located at the intersection of Delvers and Albert streets in Marshalltown, reportedly housed informal lodgings. The fire reportedly broke out around 01:30 and has been extinguished; the cause is unclear. Emergency services are onsite and authorities have closed adjacent roads.

Heightened security and localized transport and business disruptions are likely near the affected area. Authorities may restrict access to nearby roads to facilitate the movement of emergency vehicles. Officials may also mandate building evacuations in the vicinity as a precaution until response and investigations end.

Advice

Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes and allow additional travel time to nearby destinations. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is heavy, 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 orders.