24 Feb 2024 | 02:43 AM UTC
China: Emergency crews responding to major fire in Yuhuatai District, Nanjing, morning Feb. 24
Emergency crews responding to major fire at Mingshang Xiyuan residential development in Yuhuatai District, Nanjing, China, morning Feb. 24.
Emergency crews are responding to a major fire at Mingshang Xiyuan residential development in Yuhuatai District, Nanjing, the morning of Feb. 24. The blaze started at around 04:39 and has killed at least 15 people and injured 44 others. The cause of the fire remains unclear. There are no immediate reports of the fire spreading to other compounds. Officials will likely provide updates over the coming hours.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions will likely continue in the affected area over the coming hours. Authorities will probably restrict access to nearby roads to facilitate the movement of emergency vehicles. Officials may also mandate building evacuations and business closures in the vicinity as a precaution until clearance operations and investigations end.
Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Follow all security directives. Allow additional travel time in the area. Consider remaining indoors if heavy smoke is affecting the area, especially if you suffer from 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.
