9 Dead in Taiwan Hospital Fire

A devastating fire at a hospital in southern Taiwan has left at least nine people dead, coinciding with the powerful Typhoon Krathon that is wreaking havoc across the island.

The blaze broke out in Pingtung County, one of the regions hardest hit by the typhoon, which made landfall with torrential rain and winds of up to 126 kph (78 mph).

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but early reports suggest smoke inhalation was the primary cause of death.

Emergency responders, including soldiers from a nearby base, swiftly mobilized to evacuate 176 patients from the hospital.

Medical workers and firefighters battled both the fire and the extreme weather conditions, transferring patients to ambulances or sheltering them under tarps to protect them from the relentless rain.

Typhoon Krathon has paralyzed much of southern Taiwan over the past five days, forcing thousands to evacuate from flood-prone areas.

The weather authorities have urged residents of Kaohsiung and Pingtung County to remain indoors as the storm’s eye passes.

In addition to the fire, the typhoon has caused significant damage to various industries, including fishing and chemicals, while also disrupting transportation and power networks.

Despite Taiwan's progress in enhancing fire safety regulations, the combination of the hospital fire and the typhoon has intensified the challenges facing the island.