An explosion early Saturday morning disrupted a quiet neighborhood in The Hague, damaging several apartment buildings and injuring numerous people, local authorities report.
Residents in the Mariahoeve neighborhood of The Hague were jolted from sleep by a sudden explosion before dawn. The loud bang was followed by screams, creating panic among the inhabitants. Many initially thought it to be an earthquake, a resident shared with local media.
The exact cause of the explosion remains undetermined, prompting ongoing investigations. In response to the emergency, local officials swiftly deployed a specialized urban search and rescue team to the site. The team included four canine units specially trained to locate victims amidst debris, a method previously utilized during the 2023 earthquake in Turkey.
Emergency responders at the scene managed to rescue four individuals from the rubble, all of whom have been transported to nearby hospitals for medical attention. However, reports suggest there may be others still trapped beneath the debris as search efforts continue.
Meanwhile, a line of ambulances and emergency vehicles was seen on standby, ready to administer further aid if needed. Hospital spokespeople have confirmed readiness to handle any additional casualties that might arise from this incident.
The explosion in The Hague has left a trail of damage and uncertainty, with recovery efforts underway. Authorities continue to search for the cause as rescue operations persist, ensuring that those affected receive the necessary care.
Source: Apnews
