A devastating gas explosion rocked Nairobi's Embakasi neighborhood, claiming two lives and leaving more than 200 individuals injured, Kenyan authorities reported on Friday.
The explosion, occurring just before midnight at a gas refilling company, tore through the area, causing extensive damage to the company's premises and triggering a fierce fire. Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura conveyed the incident's severity via the social media platform X.
According to statements provided to Reuters, the ensuing fire engulfed a nearby textile and garment warehouse, exacerbating the destruction. Numerous vehicles, commercial establishments, and residential properties sustained damage in the blaze.
Mwaura expressed deep regret over the loss of two lives at the Nairobi West Hospital, where they were receiving medical attention. Additionally, he disclosed that 222 individuals sustained injuries in the catastrophic incident.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Nairobi, prompting urgent responses from emergency services and local authorities. Efforts are underway to manage the aftermath, provide medical care to the injured, and ascertain the full extent of the damage caused by the explosion and subsequent fire.
The incident underscores the pressing need for rigorous safety measures and stringent regulations governing the handling and storage of hazardous materials. As investigations into the explosion progress, questions regarding safety protocols and preventive measures will likely come to the forefront of public discourse.
In the wake of this tragedy, the focus remains on supporting the affected individuals and communities while taking proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Gas Explosion in Nairobi Kills Two, Injures Over 200
Gas Explosion in Nairobi Kills Two, Injures Over 200