A powerful explosion has rocked a residential street in the Dutch city of Utrecht, injuring at least four people and causing significant damage and a large blaze.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
The incident occurred in the city centre on Thursday afternoon, 15 January 2026, sending panicked residents fleeing into nearby shopping areas. Firefighters rushed to the scene to battle the ensuing fire but were initially unable to enter the damaged homes due to fears of structural instability.
Emergency services spokesman Sjaak Haasnoot confirmed that the four injured individuals were transported to a local hospital, though the extent of their injuries remains unclear. The cause of the blast is not yet known.
Uncertainty Over Potential Casualties
Authorities have expressed grave concerns that people may still be trapped beneath the rubble. "It is very difficult at the moment to say how many victims are under the rubble," Haasnoot stated, adding that the fire department could not enter the building as it was still unstable.
Rescue teams are now investigating how to safely comb through the debris of the shattered buildings to establish if anyone is trapped inside. Residents whose homes were damaged have been offered temporary accommodation in a nearby hotel.
Community Shock and Ongoing Investigation
Utrecht Mayor Sharon Dijksma addressed reporters, confirming that police have launched a full investigation into the explosion. She described the profound impact on the community, stating, "This explosion has had a huge impact on the heart of our city. Everyone is deeply shocked, especially those in the immediate vicinity."
The scene remains active as emergency services continue their delicate work to secure the area and ascertain the full scale of the incident.
