Hospital Fire in Southern Taiwan Claims Nine Lives

A devastating fire at a Pingtung County hospital coincided with Typhoon Krathon's landfall, complicating rescue efforts.

The fire broke out early Thursday morning at Antai Tian-sheng Memorial Hospital in Pingtung County, southern Taiwan.
Nine people have been confirmed dead, with most victims being elderly patients.
The fire was reportedly caused by an air compressor in the hospital's machine room, although investigations are ongoing.
The incident occurred as Typhoon Krathon made landfall nearby, bringing severe weather that hampered firefighting efforts.
Approximately 300 patients were evacuated, with some taking refuge in a nearby commercial building, assisted by soldiers from a local military base.