By nightfall, authorities announced that the fire had been confined, meaning that it was no longer spreading uncontrollably to new areas. This announcement brought a measure of relief, but the danger was far from over. Firefighters continued working late into the night, focusing on extinguishing remaining hot spots and cooling down smoldering debris to prevent flare-ups that could reignite the blaze. The hillside terrain, combined with lingering winds, made this phase of the operation particularly challenging. Crews carefully inspected damaged structures, some of which were at risk of collapse, while ensuring that no residents reentered unsafe areas. The glow of emergency lights illuminated the smoke-filled streets as exhausted firefighters rotated shifts to maintain control of the scene. Meanwhile, displaced families settled into temporary shelters, many sitting on blankets or makeshift bedding, trying to comfort children who were still shaken by the chaos of the afternoon. For many, the reality of what had been lost only began to sink in as the flames subsided and the night grew quiet.
In the hours following containment, officials revealed a troubling detail that may help explain the fire’s rapid escalation. Authorities reported that the blaze appeared to have reached a clandestine fireworks or pyrotechnics workshop operating illegally within the residential area. According to investigators, the presence of stored fireworks, chemicals, and related materials could have intensified the flames and contributed to small explosions that were heard and recorded by residents during the height of the fire. Videos circulating on social media showed bursts of light and loud popping sounds, fueling speculation and fear among the community. Fire officials stated that this location was being treated as a likely point of origin, though a full investigation would be required to determine the exact cause. The discovery has reignited concerns about illegal and dangerous activities operating within densely populated neighborhoods, where a single spark can trigger catastrophic consequences. Authorities emphasized that such operations pose a severe risk not only to those directly involved but also to entire communities living nearby, especially in areas with limited infrastructure and emergency access. Continue reading…
