Tulum, Q.R. — Firemen in Tulum were able to save a hotel zone restaurant from a New Years Day fire that ripped through part of the inside. Firemen were sent to the Gitano Jungle Mexican restaurant in the coastal area Thursday in response to reports of the mid-afternoon blaze.
The fast moving fire started around 3:30 p.m. that had firefighters and Tulum Civil Protection personnel scrambling to control it. Dry grass and strong winds worked against those trying to extinguish the roaring jungle fire.
According to information confirmed at the scene, the fire originated on the jungle side and not on the beach side of the establishment. Employees were able to evacuate in time, and no injuries were reported.
The fire quickly spread, creating a dense column of smoke visible for kilometers. The large column of thick black smoke was easily seen by beachgoers in the Tulum Hotel Zone Thursday afternoon.
Zofemat personnel also intervened to expedite traffic flow and facilitate access for emergency vehicles. The afternoon blaze led to road closures and checkpoints causing severe traffic congestion from Cobá Avenue to the coastal area.
An official cause for the afternoon fire is still under investigation. Authorities have not speculated on damage costs or said just how much of the restaurant was actually destroyed.
Riviera Maya News serving headline news for Tulum since 2014
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