On Saturday, February 14, an alarming explosion followed by a structural fire in the center of Macas, Morona Santiago province, prompted a rapid emergency response. The incident occurred around 6:00 PM on the seventh floor and terrace of a building, where a restaurant was located. The explosion caused severe damage due to the flames and the shockwave produced. The local firefighting unit, Cuerpo de Bomberos de Morona, reported the active fire upon arrival, which was situated on the building’s seventh floor at the intersection of Mariscal Sucre and Soasty streets.

Firefighters identified nine gas cylinders at the scene, three of which had exploded. The remaining six cylinders, which showed signs of deformation due to heat exposure, were evacuated and relocated to a safe area to prevent further risks. Efforts to control and extinguish the fire included cooling techniques and direct engagement with hot spots, and the firefighters successfully extinguished the flames completely.

After the fire was contained, the firefighters secured the scene by removing debris and ensuring that no further hazards existed. This incident highlights the potential dangers associated with gas cylinders, particularly in densely populated areas, and it underscores the importance of emergency preparedness in the community.