A tragic gas explosion in the Embakasi district of Nairobi, Kenya, has left at least two dead and around 222 injured.
Gatekeepers News reports that the incident occurred when a lorry loaded with gas cylinders exploded in Mradi village, igniting a massive fire.
The explosion resulted in a flying gas cylinder hitting a nearby garments and textiles warehouse, leading to its destruction and the spread of the fire.
Isaac Mwaura, government spokesperson, stated that the inferno damaged several vehicles, commercial properties, and residential houses in the neighborhood.
Videos on social media show the extent of the devastation, with blocks of flats and cars engulfed in flames. The explosion caused panic among residents, with several subsequent blasts reported.
Wesley Kimeto, Embakasi police chief, expressed concerns that the death toll might rise, as a child and an adult were confirmed among the fatalities. Rescue operations have been initiated, and a command center has been established to coordinate efforts. Mama Lucy Hospital in Nairobi has treated 167 victims so far.
Authorities have secured the blast scene, urging residents to stay away to facilitate effective rescue operations.
