A large fire at the Multicomercio building in downtown Guayaquil has been under gradual control after more than 24 hours of firefighting efforts, with authorities noting the lack of sprinkler systems despite basic fire detection capabilities.
A massive fire continued to impact the Multicomercio building in downtown Guayaquil, Ecuador, with firefighters working relentlessly for over 24 hours to bring the situation under control. The fire's intensity was so severe that internal temperatures exceeded 700 degrees Celsius, leading to the destruction of two out of the building's five towers. The emergency teams focused on reducing the internal temperatures to prevent further structural collapse.
According to Martín Cucalón, the head of the Guayaquil Fire Department, the building was equipped with basic fire protection systems, including smoke detection, hoses, and internal hydrant boxes. However, it lacked automatic sprinkler systems, which may have contributed to the extent of the damage. This revelation has raised concerns regarding building safety regulations and the implementation of adequate fire prevention measures in commercial structures in the area.
The ongoing firefighting efforts highlight not only the immediate challenges posed by the fire but also the broader implications for building safety standards in Ecuador. The absence of sprinklers in such a large commercial building reflects on the regulatory framework in place, prompting discussions on necessary reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure the safety of occupants and nearby residents from such catastrophic events.
