A large fire broke out at the Segalmex warehouses in Zacatecas, causing panic and chaos in the area, as well as a major mobilization of emergency services.
The flames spread rapidly, creating a dense column of smoke visible from various points in the capital. Unofficially, a vehicle was also reported engulfed in flames. Authorities confirmed that there were no injuries or fatalities.
What caused the fire in Zacatecas?
Two versions of the fire’s origin circulated on social media. One was that the fire started in a mechanic’s workshop and spread to the warehouse. However, bean farmers, led by local leaders, went to the central and rural warehouses of the Food for Well-being program, located in the La Escondida neighborhood, where they first blocked access by burning tires and then set the buildings on fire.
These warehouses stored food from the Rural Supply Program, destined for vulnerable communities in the state.
The damage was significant. According to official information:
The value of the affected merchandise exceeds 6 million pesos.
There was also damage to the building and furnishings, which belong to the Mexican government.
A warehouse shared with the “Leche para el Bienestar” (Milk for Well-being) program was affected.
Although the products were insured, a detailed inventory of the losses will be conducted.
What did Civil Protection report about the fire?
The director of Municipal Civil Protection confirmed that the fire is now considered a fully engulfed fire, with total damage to the warehouse.
He explained that they are working on two fronts: one direct and one indirect, with the goal of containing the flames and preventing them from spreading further.
He also detailed that:
The warehouse is a total loss.
No injuries have been reported so far.
At least 18 vehicles were evacuated from inside.
A nearby gas station was shut down as an emergency measure to avoid risks.
In addition, explosions have been reported inside, caused by forklift gas tanks, which has complicated the firefighters’ efforts.
The fire in Zacatecas remains out of control and could continue.
Authorities reported that, despite the combined efforts of all three levels of government, the fire is only 20% contained. The wind has been a key factor in keeping the fire active, constantly fanning the flames.
The state of the structure is also a concern, as it is already showing signs of deformation and could collapse at any moment. To reinforce the firefighting efforts, water tankers from various municipalities have arrived, as well as specialized units, including a ladder truck to attack the fire from above.
The Zacatecas City Council issued an alert urging residents to avoid the boulevard heading towards the exit to Fresnillo, where the emergency is concentrated. They also asked the public to stay away from the area so as not to hinder the work of the rescue teams.
They even appealed to companies with water tankers or other resources to join the firefighting efforts. Emergency crews are already working in the area to extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading to other areas.
The situation remains out of control, while emergency crews struggle to fully contain the blaze and reduce risks to the population.
Source: tvazteca
