TAICHUNG (TVBS News) — Mayor Lu Shiow-yen (盧秀燕) announced on Thursday afternoon (Dec. 9) that the city government has activated emergency measures in response to a massive fire that engulfed the PX Mart (全聯) warehouse in Taichung's Dadu District (大肚區). The mayor also emphasized that the construction site adhered to legal permits and that various departments are actively assisting in rescue efforts. The Health Bureau (衛生局) has alerted local hospitals to prepare for an influx of injured individuals.
Also, the Education Bureau (教育局) confirmed that three nearby schools do not face an immediate threat from the flames, though smoke is present. Parents have been advised to pick up their children early as a precaution. The Environmental Protection Bureau (環保局) has issued warnings to nearby residents and the Changhua County Government regarding potential smoke hazards. Mayor Lu also reported that site safety officials indicated that between five and eight people remained trapped inside the warehouse, with firefighters working tirelessly to rescue them.
The blaze erupted at a PX Mart construction site currently under development. Rescuers have successfully saved 18 individuals, including one who jumped from the third floor and remains in critical condition. The Fire Bureau (消防局) later confirmed the discovery of two additional fatalities, raising the total death toll to three.