‘Deep Fire’ Slowing Rescue Effort at Collapsed Florida Condo

SURFSIDE, Fla.—Fire and smoke coming from deep inside the concrete and metal remains of a collapsed 12-story condominium tower near Miami hampered rescue efforts Saturday, as emergency workers raced to recover any survivors beneath the mountain of rubble.

Rescuers used infrared technology, water, and foam to battle the blaze, the source of which was unclear, and Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said the smoke has been the biggest challenge. In a news conference, she described the blaze as “very deep” and said rescuers faced “incredible difficulties” because of the flames.

A fire hose blasted one of the lower floors on the north side of the tower as white smoke or steam streamed out, and a bitter, sulfur-like smell hung in the air.

“The stench is very thick,” Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said.

A crane removed pieces of debris from the more than 30-foot pile in the city of Surfside, and scores of rescuers used big machines, small buckets, drones, microphones, and their own hands to pick through the rubble.

Among those anxiously awaiting word of missing loved ones was Rachel Spiegel, whose mother, 66-year-old Judy Spiegel, lived on the sixth floor. Speaking alongside her siblings, she said Saturday that “we’re trying to hold it together.”

“I know my mom is a fighter. I know she loves us. I know she doesn’t want to give up. So, you know, it’s day three, so it’s hard,” Spiegel said.

One hundred fifty-nine people were still unaccounted for two days after Thursday’s collapse, which killed at least four.

Authorities announced they were beginning an audit of buildings nearing their 40-year review—like the fallen Champlain Towers South—to make sure they’re safe. The mayor asked other cities in the county to join the building review and said there will be state and federal funding to help.

https://www.ntd.com/deep-fire-slowing-rescue-effort-at-collapsed-florida-condo_633795.html