Authorities in Taiwan are responding to a tragic incident that occurred at a shopping mall in the city of Taichung on Thursday. A gas explosion on the 12th floor of the mall has resulted in at least five fatalities and seven injuries, according to the fire department.
Dramatic videos captured the moment of the explosion, showing debris and large panels of the building's exterior blown out, with smoke rising from the affected floor. The blast occurred in an area where a food court was under construction, adding to the devastation.
Following the explosion, emergency responders, including over 130 firefighters, rushed to the scene to conduct rescue operations. The aftermath of the blast left the floor severely damaged, with rubble, broken structures, and twisted metal scattered throughout the area.
Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has activated various government agencies to respond to the incident, with a focus on coordinating medical resources for the injured. President Lai has also called for a swift investigation into the cause of the explosion and advised the public to avoid the area for safety reasons.
This tragic event is a reminder of the dangers posed by gas explosions, with Taiwan having experienced similar incidents in the past. In 2014, a series of explosions caused by underground gas leaks in Kaohsiung resulted in numerous casualties and extensive damage to the city.
As rescue efforts continue at the Taichung shopping mall, authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety of those affected and to determine the circumstances that led to this devastating incident.
