The authorities accused “some foreign media” of smearing the government’s response to a fire at a high-rise complex, saying: “Do not say you have not been warned.”

An early grid battery was installed in the Atacama Desert in Chile 15 years ago. Now, as prices have tumbled, they are increasingly being used around the world.

Hazardous construction materials, the buildings’ design and a series of safety failures likely enabled the blaze to spread with devastating speed.

The authorities quickly arrested critics demanding accountability, signaling an expansive use of the security law to silence dissent over nonpolitical tragedies.

The authorities said flammable netting and foam boards may have fueled the city’s deadliest blaze in nearly 80 years, killing more than 90 and prompting arrests.

The authorities said flammable netting and foam boards may have fueled the city’s deadliest blaze in nearly 70 years, killing 55 and prompting arrests.

Residents from across the city have quickly organized to donate food, water, clothing and other supplies in Tai Po for the many displaced people.