Two people lost their lives and 56 others, including 39 first responders, were injured following a pair of massive explosions at an unlicensed liquified petroleum gas (LPG) plant.
The incident happened in Crevedia, close to Romania’s capital, Bucharest, on Saturday, August 26.
LPG, a mixture of hydrocarbon gases, is a popular alternative to traditional fuels in Eastern Europe due to its cost-effectiveness and is known for its high combustibility.
The first explosion prompted the evacuation of nearby residences and disrupted local traffic as flames reached two fuel storage tanks. As firefighters responded to the incident, a second explosion generated a large mushroom cloud, injuring over two dozen firefighters.
An unidentified couple was killed in the explosion. Several other victims, including police personnel, are currently in critical condition with severe burns.
Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu announced plans to transfer four critically injured patients to medical facilities in Italy and Belgium.
Deputy Interior Minister Raed Arafat revealed that the plant was operating without a proper license.
Romanian President Klaus Iohannis expressed his condolences via a Facebook post and emphasized the need for medical support for the victims and a comprehensive investigation. “As soon as the situation in the at-risk area is stabilized, an investigation must be launched,” Iohannis said.
