A catastrophic fire at a popular ski resort in the scenic C Coru Mountains has claimed the lives of at least 66 people, according to government officials. The blaze erupted in the early morning hours, leading to a panic-stricken evacuation as guests were forced to leap from the 12-story hotel engulfed in flames. The resort, nestled in the Clea district, is a beloved destination for winter sports enthusiasts, especially during the ongoing school holiday season.
The fire is believed to have originated around 3:30 a.m. in the hotel’s kitchen, situated near a cliff, which posed significant challenges for firefighters battling the inferno. Despite the hotel’s compliance with safety regulations, including the presence of two fire exits, the exact cause of the fire remains unknown. Turkish authorities have launched an investigation to determine the origin of the deadly blaze.
Constructed with wooden cladding, the hotel was at full capacity with families enjoying their winter break. The Health Ministry has reported that, in addition to the fatalities, at least 51 people have sustained injuries, with several in critical condition. The tragedy has sparked a wave of public outrage on social media, as many of the victims were children vacationing with their families.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan addressed the nation, expressing his condolences and emphasizing the importance of the ongoing investigation. He assured the public that the hotel had met all necessary safety requirements, but the incident has nonetheless raised concerns about building safety standards.
This incident has reignited previous criticisms of building codes in Turkey, particularly in the wake of the devastating earthquake near the Syrian border earlier in 2023. As the investigation progresses, authorities are under pressure to ensure that such tragedies can be prevented in the future.
The tourism and interior ministers have visited the site, promising transparency and swift action in the investigation. Meanwhile, the community mourns the loss of lives in what was supposed to be a joyful retreat for many families.
As the nation grapples with this disaster, doubts linger about the safety of similar establishments and the adequacy of current regulations. The government’s response in the coming days will be pivotal in addressing public concerns and preventing future incidents.