A terrifying fire broke out aboard a Carnival Cruise ship late Monday night, leaving dozens injured and forcing the vessel to drift powerless in open waters. The blaze, which reportedly began in the engine room around 11:45 p.m., quickly spread through lower decks, sending passengers into panic as thick smoke filled corridors and alarms blared across the ship.
Crew members initiated emergency protocols, attempting to contain the fire and guide passengers to safety. However, chaos erupted as power failed shortly after the blaze ignited, plunging the ship into darkness and complicating evacuation efforts.
Emergency responders from the U.S. Coast Guard were dispatched immediately after receiving distress signals. Rescue ships and helicopters reached the scene early Tuesday morning, aiding in the evacuation of the most seriously injured and working to stabilize the drifting vessel.
At least 38 passengers and crew members sustained injuries, ranging from smoke inhalation to burns. While no fatalities have been confirmed, several individuals remain in critical condition.
Carnival Cruise Lines has yet to release a full statement but confirmed that an investigation is underway. Federal maritime authorities are expected to lead the probe into the cause of the fire and evaluate the company’s safety protocols.
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