A devastating blaze ravaged a seaside resort in the Dominican Republic on Friday, claiming the life of a woman and necessitating the evacuation of nearly 1,700 guests and employees.
The relentless fire erupted at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Hotel, casting thick, dark clouds of smoke across the scenic Caribbean shores.
Footage captured voracious flames and billowing smoke engulfing the thatched roofs and hotel amenities.
The casualty has been identified as 46-year-old Italian citizen Francesca Valentino.
According to the Dominican Republic’s pre-hospital emergency services, three individuals were hospitalized in Bayahibe while six others received treatment onsite.
Initial reports indicate that the fire ignited due to “roof structures made of palm” and unfavorable weather conditions, according to authorities.
“Preliminary observations indicate that the fire spread rapidly due to the flammable nature of parts of the roof structures made of palm, as well as wind conditions,” the Dominican Emergency Operations Center (COE) said.
“Tourist activities in Bayahibe and the surrounding area remain unaffected and continue to take place safely and as normal,” COE added.
The Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace, part of the same chain, did not sustain any damage.
Bayahibe is a popular destination for U.S. and international tourists on the Dominican Republic’s southeastern coast.
Wyndham Hotels did not immediately respond to The Post’s request for comment.
With Post wires