A warehouse fire in Lima, ongoing since Monday, has resulted in the collapse of four buildings, though no casualties have been reported. Over 400 firefighters are currently battling the blaze, which is expected to persist until Sunday. The fire originated in an unlicensed warehouse storing goods for street vendors; authorities are investigating its cause and ensuring safety amid ongoing risks.
In Lima, Peru, a warehouse fire that began on Monday continues to rage, raising concerns as it has led to the collapse of four adjacent buildings. Firefighters have been battling the flames for four days, with more than 400 personnel deployed to the scene and over 50 tankers in action. The flames are expected to remain active until at least Sunday, with reports indicating no fatalities as of Thursday, despite structural weaknesses threatening two additional buildings.
The fire ignited in a historic neighborhood and is believed to have originated in an eight-story warehouse that stored various products for street vendors in the nearby Mesa Redonda district. Local authorities confirmed that the warehouse was operating without a license and had previously been shut down on three separate occasions. The historic center of Lima, bustling with street vendors and shops, heavily relies on nearby warehouse facilities for efficient restocking.
Historical context highlights the danger of such fires; a tragic incident in December 2001 resulted in the deaths of 277 people during a similar event in the capital. As firefighters continue their efforts, the cause of the blaze remains undetermined, prompting calls for further scrutiny of fire safety regulations and building licensing in the area.
The severe fire in Lima’s Barrios Altos has raised significant safety concerns as it threatens nearby structures and highlights the issue of unlicensed warehouses in the city. With no fatalities reported but structural integrity at risk, the disaster underscores the importance of enforcing safety regulations. Local authorities are compelled to investigate the fire’s cause and the ongoing risk posed by similar establishments in Lima’s historically dense neighborhoods.
Original Source: apnews.com