Massive fire at resort in the Dominican Republic prompts evacuation of nearly 1,700 tourists

A massive fire in the Dominican Republic devastated a luxury resort, almost completely destroying the property and prompting the evacuation of nearly 1,700 tourists. 

The fire resulted in one death. Several other tourists were injured and are receiving medical treatment, per Dominican authorities.

The fire impacted the Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham resort, located in Bayahibe, a town on the southern coast of Hispaniola popular with international tourists. 

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Authorities say strong winds and the resort’s thatched roofs caused the fire to “spread rapidly.” 

The Dominican Republic’s Emergency Operations Center said on Saturday that the fire is now under control and resort guests had been moved to other nearby hotels.