This week, shocking footage captured a powerful explosion that sent a line of minibusses airborne and people fleeing for their lives on the streets of Johannesburg.
Wednesday evening during rush hour in South Africa's largest metropolis, a bizarre underground detonation killed one man and injured 48 others. The closed-circuit footage depicted the event.
Massive Mystery Blast in South Africa Kills 1, Injures Dozens
The jarring vibration also ripped a gaping crater in the road, causing a section of pavement to collapse beneath the ground. An individual with his back to the street was observed scurrying away as a hefty white bus came close to crushing him.
Another individual, however, was not so fortunate; his body was discovered by firefighters pinned beneath a vehicle during a search of the area following the detonation. Twelve victims were hospitalized across the city on Thursday, while 36 others had been released, according to officials.
According to NY Post, the cause of the explosion is currently undetermined. The company that supplied gas to that section of the city stated that it did not believe its subterranean pipelines were behind it, contrary to what authorities initially believed.
Officials from the municipality stated that they had brought in specialists to determine whether or not another detonation or gas release was imminent. Premier of the Gauteng province, which includes Johannesburg, Panyaza Lesufi stated, "We are still seeking for the source."
Some residents of the area were compelled to evacuate due to the possibility of a second detonation or because they resided in a multi-story building that could collapse. On Thursday, some were permitted to return to their homes or enterprises.
Officials Issue Warning to Avoid Johannesburg Explosion Area
According to authorities, approximately five city blocks, six highways, and 34 vehicles were damaged. A number of the vehicles were overturned on their sides. Some passengers were seated in the minibus vehicles, waiting to go home, when the detonation threw them into the air, according to eyewitness accounts. One individual told eNCA that he was seated in his car when he heard a "loud noise."
Per Daily Mail, Central Business District security CCTV footage from a nearby building captures the instant explosion occurred, cracking the asphalt and sending minibusses and taxis flying.
Officials have issued a warning to the public to avoid the area due to safety concerns. The footage depicts pedestrians fleeing desperately on sidewalks after the explosion.
As a consequence of the explosion, it appeared that most vehicles were rendered immobile, although one van was seen attempting to reverse up the street. Some people were stranded in their vehicles and required rescue.
The footage depicts a large fissure running down the center of the road and a gaping crater caused by the detonation. The spokesperson for Johannesburg Emergency Services (EMS), Robert Mulaudzi, stated that at least eleven persons were injured in the detonation.
Due to the possibility of further explosions, a disaster management team has cordoned off a one-kilometer area. Buildings are also being evaluated for structural damage caused by the explosion.
