Today in China, footage circulating on the internet depicts a large blue smoke cloud, wrecked vehicles, and scattered debris, following a significant explosion.
Reports suggest that a possible gas explosion occurred in Yanjiao, affecting numerous buildings and vehicles on Wednesday morning. According to the Global Times, a state-run publication, the blast originated in a restaurant located on the ground floor of an aged residential building in Hebei province, which is in the northern part of China. The exact number of injuries remains unknown, but there have been reports of victims being transported to the hospital.
Online videos reveal a significant blue smoke cloud, multiple damaged cars, and debris covering the area. Following the incident, local officials dispatched an investigative team to the site and have initiated rescue operations, as reported by various sources.
#BREAKING– Large explosion damages multiple buildings in Yanjiao, China.
No word on injuries at this time.#explosion #China #Yanjiaopic.twitter.com/lQ6UMCTv30— Chaudhary Parvez (@ChaudharyParvez) March 13, 2024
State broadcaster CCTV reported, “A blast happened in a ground-floor restaurant within an older residential district,” indicating suspicions of a gas explosion.
CCTV noted that the explosion occurred at approximately 7:55 am (local time) in Xiaozhanggezhuang, a residential section of Yanjiao in Sanhe City. This location is situated less than 50 kilometers east of Beijing.
Social media footage depicted what seemed to be a completely collapsed building alongside several vehicles that were heavily damaged.
