NAIROBI, Kenya – A massive gas explosion rocked the capital city of Nairobi, leading to widespread destruction and numerous injuries. After daybreak, it was evident that several houses and shops were burnt to the ground, with the vehicle believed to have caused the explosion left in ruins on the road. A nearby residential building suffered damage to its roof, and electric wires lay on the ground, highlighting the extensive devastation caused by the blast.
Eyewitnesses described the harrowing experience, with one resident, Alfred Juma, recalling the moment he heard the loud noise of a gas cylinder in a warehouse next to his home. He quickly sprang into action, alerting his neighbors and urging them to evacuate. However, the situation took a turn for the worse when a passing car refused to heed his warning, resulting in the vehicle stalling due to the fumes and ultimately triggering the explosion. Juma and others sought refuge in a sewage ditch until the explosions subsided, with little remaining once the fire had been extinguished.
The aftermath and impact of the explosion extended to the surrounding community, as neighbor Caroline Karanja described the chaos that followed. The police cordoned off the area, preventing residents from returning to their homes and leaving them with no choice but to seek temporary shelter elsewhere. The Kenya Red Cross reported three fatalities as a result of the explosion and subsequent fire, with the number of casualties expected to rise as more information becomes available.
As officials assess the damage and investigate the cause of the explosion, concerns have been raised about the proximity of industrial facilities to residential areas and the enforcement of city building regulations. Various parties have been accused of turning a blind eye to building codes and regulations, leading to potential risks for local communities. The extent of the damage and the number of injuries underscore the urgent need for thorough safety measures and oversight to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The images captured from a drone and video footage offer a stark visual representation of the devastation wrought by the explosion, serving as a poignant reminder of the widespread impact on the community. As the affected individuals begin the process of recovery and rebuilding, the focus remains on providing support and resources for those impacted by this tragic event.