Fire at a ski resort. Tourists’ recreation turned into a nightmare

A dramatic event took place in Kartalkaya, Turkey. The fire broke out on the premises of one of the hotel facilities located in the Koroglu Mountains and spread very quickly. Currently, there are approximately 66 deaths and 51 injuries on site, but the situation is changing dynamically. Tourists fled the scene in terror. Many of them went there to relax in one of the most popular ski resorts, but their moments of relaxation turned into a nightmare.

Tragedy in a Turkish resort

According to the head of the Turkish Interior Ministry, Ali Yerlikaya, the fire broke out on January 21 in the morning. People who were staying in hotel rooms during this situation did everything to leave the facility. Those who could not do it in the traditional way lowered themselves from the windows on sheets. Despite everything, many people did not survive the disaster.

30 fire brigade vehicles fought a fierce battle against the fire in the ski resort. 28 ambulances also arrived at the scene. It was also necessary to evacuate guests from nearby hotels where no fire occurred. There was a risk that the flames would also reach other places.

This situation is a tragedy not only for tourists, but also for locals. Turkey is currently on winter break, so there were a lot of guests in the hotels, including students from local schools. “I can’t contact some of my students. I hope they are all right,” a ski instructor present at the scene commented for NTV television.

The cause of the fire is under investigation

Although it is too early to talk about the official cause of the fire, local media reports indicate that the rapid spread of the fire may have been caused by the wooden cladding outside the hotel. Footage of the entire incident has appeared online. They showed the burning upper floors and roof of the building.

Six prosecutors were appointed to investigate the fire. The Minister of Health, Interior and Culture is expected to arrive soon.