(Reuters) - A large blaze at a garbage dump outside Panama City blew a toxic smoke in the country's capital on Friday, forcing evacuations as firefighters battled to put out the flames that authorities said were likely caused by arson the night before.
"Everything points to the fire being started deliberately," firefighter chief Ernesto de Leon told a press conference.
Health Minister Luis Francisco Sucre told reporters evacuations were being effected to protect residents from the flames and toxic gases.
Videos on social media showed a helicopter flying above the thick gray smoke spraying down water as birds scatter overhead.
Since 6 a.m. some 7,360 gallons (around 28,000 liters) of water have been sprayed over the area, authorities told reporters, saying some 60% of the blaze was controlled and this could reach 90% by Saturday.
Persons:
Firefighers, Ernesto de Leon, Luis Francisco Sucre, Sucre, Angel Delgado, Laurentino Cortizo, Sarah Morland, Valentine Hilaire, Sandra Maler
Organizations:
Reuters, Panama City, Health, La Prensa, Saturday, La, Cerro Patacon
Locations:
Panama, Cerro