A significant blaze engulfed the well-known Ranchón de 4 Esquinas in Playa Girón, located in Matanzas province, on the evening of Wednesday, February 5. The fire spread swiftly, with thick plumes of smoke and flames visible from miles away. Witnesses noted that the wooden and thatched structure of the venue accelerated the spread of the flames, complicating firefighters' efforts to control the situation.
Fortunately, there have been no reports of casualties, but the property damage is extensive. Authorities have yet to disclose any potential causes behind the blaze. Images circulating on social media capture the intensity of the fire; in one dramatic shot, towering flames light up the night sky as they engulf the ranchón. Another image shows local residents gathered, watching the devastation unfold, highlighting the event's impact on the community.
This incident marks the second blaze reported in Matanzas on the same day. Earlier, a fire broke out at a warehouse in Varadero, although officials stated there were no injuries or impacts on tourism. The fire at Ranchón de 4 Esquinas is part of a troubling pattern of similar fires across Cuba throughout 2024.
Back in December of that year, another substantial fire obliterated the remnants of the La Concha social club in the Playa municipality of Havana. The site had been in ruins for years, and the inferno consumed the main building entirely.
Understanding the Fire Incidents in Matanzas
What caused the fire at Ranchón de 4 Esquinas?
As of now, authorities have not released any details about the potential causes of the fire at Ranchón de 4 Esquinas.
Were there any injuries in the Playa Girón fire?
Thankfully, there have been no reported injuries from the fire at Playa Girón.
How does this fire compare to other recent incidents in Cuba?
This fire is part of a series of similar incidents that have occurred in Cuba, including a notable fire in December that destroyed the La Concha social club in Havana.