A devastating road explosion ripped through Bree Street in Johannesburg’s bustling Central Business District in South Africa on Wednesday, July 19, causing chaos and leaving one person dead while injuring dozens of others.
Security CCTV footage from a nearby building captured the shocking moment when the entire road erupted in an explosion, cracking the tarmac and sending minibuses flying, trapping some drivers in their cars.
Authorities have yet to confirm the cause of the explosion, but they have issued warnings to the public to avoid the area due to ongoing safety concerns.
The force of the blast created a large crack running down the middle of the road and a gaping hole, adding to the destruction caused by the incident.
According to Robert Mulaudzi, spokesperson for Johannesburg Emergency Services (EMS), at least 11 people were injured in the blast. Among the injured, one individual is reported to be in critical condition.
The emergency response teams worked diligently to rescue those trapped in their vehicles, providing swift medical assistance to the wounded.
To prevent further potential hazards, a disaster management squad has cordoned off a one-kilometer area around the site of the explosion, fearing the risk of additional blasts. As the area is secured, authorities are conducting assessments of nearby buildings to evaluate any structural damage sustained from the incident.
At present, officials suspect a gas leak as the cause of the sudden explosion. Some locals have reported smelling unusual odors in the area before the tragic event occurred, pointing towards a possible gas-related incident.
Emergency services, firefighters, and law enforcement are continuing their operations to secure the area, treat the injured, and investigate the exact cause of the explosion.
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