World
Widespread destruction as fire tears through Caribbean island resort
A huge blaze has torn through a Caribbean island resort, ravaging more than 200 homes and businesses and forcing hundreds of residents to flee.
Dramatic video shared on social media showed rows of seaside properties engulfed in flames and collapsing on Guanaja, which lies around 44 miles (70km) off the north coast of Honduras.
The huge blaze sent up billows of smoke
Hundreds of residents were forced to flee
The country’s air force dropped water in the effort to put out the inferno, but not before it had caused widespread devastation.
Footage taken after the fire was brought under control showed dozens of houses with no roofs and windows.
Government minister Max Gonzales said: “We can confirm that we have no human losses, but vast material losses.”
The inferno left a trail of devastation in its wake
Four people were injured in the blaze, which destroyed 90 houses and damaged another 120, including some used as businesses, Mr Gonzales said.
The fire broke out before dawn and residents struggled to bring it under control, as the island does not have a fire service.
Guanaja is a picturesque island, popular among divers for its warm, crystal clear waters and large barrier reef.