Major fire mobilizes firefighters in Guayaquil

A major structural fire erupted in Guayaquil, Ecuador, on Friday afternoon, drawing a massive response from emergency teams. The ECU 911 Samborondón system received an alert at 5:02 PM regarding a fire in a building on Juan Tanca Marengo Avenue, with a column of smoke visible for kilometers.

The Guayaquil Fire Department deployed a significant operational force, including four firefighting vehicles, four mechanical ladders, a rescue team, and three ambulances. The severity of the blaze led to a Level 2 alarm, mobilizing extensive resources. The National Secretariat for Risk Management is continuously monitoring the situation and coordinating with response entities.

Preliminary reports suggest the affected building, a three-story cement structure, was apparently functioning as a warehouse. Firefighters are intensely working to control the fire from the upper levels of the structure. Initial information indicates the possible presence of people inside the building, specifically in a bathroom, which rescue teams are verifying to proceed with safe evacuation maneuvers.

The Transit and Mobility Agency, coordinated by ECU 911, has implemented provisional road closures on Juan Tanca Marengo Avenue to facilitate the work of emergency responders. Vehicle restrictions are in place from the Honda company to Abel Romero Castillo Avenue. Authorities are advising drivers to avoid the area and use alternate routes, following instructions from traffic personnel.