Updated 15 January 2026 at 23:18 IST
Explosion in the Netherlands Injures at Least 4 and Causes Widespread Damage
An explosion in Utrecht's city center injured at least four people and caused extensive damage. The blast occurred in the afternoon, prompting evacuations and a fire that firefighters struggled to control due to fears of structural instability.
Utrecht, Netherlands: An explosion on a residential street in the center of the Dutch city of Utrecht injured at least four people Thursday, an emergency services official said. The cause of the blast was not immediately known.
The explosion, which caused a blaze and widespread damage, occurred mid afternoon, sending people running into nearby shopping streets. Firefighters tried to douse the flames but were not immediately able to enter damaged homes because of fears of structural damage.
Emergency services spokesman Sjaak Haasnoot said the four people injured were taken to waiting ambulances. It was unclear if there were any casualties.
“It is very difficult at the moment to say how many victims are under the rubble”, Haasnoot said. “The fire department cannot enter the building because it is still unstable”. By 5.30pm, the fire brigade was able to enter the building where the blast had taken place. It is not yet clear if anyone is under the rubble.
Utrecht mayor Sharon Dijksma told reporters it is still too early to say how much damage has been caused and how many people have been injured. An investigation is under way and some people reported smelling gas, she is quoted as saying. Police were investigating, he added.
Published By : Melvin Narayan
Published On: 15 January 2026 at 23:18 IST