One fire, initially blamed on an electrical short circuit, occurred at a house, while another broke out at a chair manufacturing facility.
Early on October 4, a fire erupted at a chair factory on Tran Van Giau Street in Tan Tao Ward. Security guards and residents tried unsuccessfully to extinguish the flames before firefighters arrived.
Dozens of firefighters and several specialised vehicles were deployed to bring the blaze under control.
No casualties were reported, but part of the factory's steel structure and roof collapsed, while a nearby 16-seat vehicle was badly damaged by the heat. Authorities are investigating the cause and assessing losses.
A day earlier, a fire broke out at a two-storey, 100-square-metre house on Nguyen Chi Thanh Street in Minh Phung Ward. All occupants escaped safely, with an electrical short circuit identified as the preliminary cause.
The fires occurred as HCM City experienced prolonged heavy rain and localised flooding. The Southern Regional Hydrometeorological Centre forecast moderate to very heavy rain could continue for several days.
Authorities warned that electrical equipment, wiring and sockets exposed to moisture or floodwater could pose fire and electric shock risks, while flooded and congested roads could hamper emergency response.
Residents were advised to regularly check electrical systems, avoid using damaged equipment or appliances in wet or flooded areas, and cut power only when safe to do so.
Businesses were urged to inspect electrical systems, heat sources and flammable materials, keep fire extinguishers accessible and ensure escape routes remain clear.
Households and boarding houses should also have evacuation plans and suitable firefighting equipment, authorities said.
