Video appears to show Thailand fire 'flashover' event, expert says

A video capturing a devastating fire at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub in Bangkok, which claimed 27 lives and injured 64, may show a "flashover" event, according to a crowd safety expert. This phenomenon, described as the "point of no return" in fire evacuations, occurs when combustible materials ignite simultaneously due to a buildup of toxic gases, making escape extremely difficult.

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It's basically what they call 'the point of no return' in fire evacuation. Everything catches on fire and goes up in flames at once as a result of the build-up of toxic gas.

Milad Haghani, an associate professor at the University of Melbourne specializing in crowd safety, analyzed footage showing a horizontal plume of fire erupting from the pub's doorway as patrons fled. He stated that such an event suggests the venue reached a flashover state very rapidly, potentially within minutes. The internal materials and furniture of pubs are often highly flammable, with sound insulation foams and abundant alcohol contributing to the fire's intensity.

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Judging by the footage and the intensity of the fire, it's likely the venue has got to flashover state very rapidly.

Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, but initial assessments point to an electrical short circuit in an air conditioner. Officials have also highlighted that obstructed emergency exits significantly hindered patrons' escape. Reports indicate that beer crates blocked one exit, while a table obstructed the other, preventing a swift evacuation.

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There are two fire exits, one is near the kitchen. There were beer crates in the way.

The pub is situated in a busy area of northern Bangkok, near shopping malls and tourist attractions. The rapid spread of the fire, exacerbated by the flashover and blocked exits, has raised serious questions about safety protocols in such venues. Authorities are awaiting forensic investigators' detailed examination of the scene.

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We need to wait for forensic investigators to examine the scene more closely.