THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — An explosion and fireplace rocked a neighborhood within the Dutch metropolis of The Hague early Saturday, destroying a number of residences and injuring a number of folks, in response to authorities.
The reason behind the catastrophe is unclear, however police stated they’re searching for a automotive seen leaving the scene.
Emergency authorities stated 4 folks have been rescued from the rubble and brought to the hospital, however couldn’t say how many individuals should still be beneath the rubble. Local media reported that a type of hospitalized was a toddler.
A line of ambulances may very well be seen ready close by in anticipation of extra victims. The spokesperson for the native hospital stated that they have been on standby to take care of accidents.
Residents of the northeastern neighborhood of Mariahoeve in The Hague heard an enormous bang and screams earlier than daybreak. One girl instructed native media that she thought an earthquake had occurred.
Dutch authorities deployed a specialised city search and rescue crew to the scene, with 4 canines educated to seek out victims. The crew was beforehand used in the course of the devastating earthquake in Turkey in 2023.
Prime Minister Dick Schoof stated in a press release he was shocked by the pictures of the catastrophe. “My ideas exit to the victims, all different folks concerned and the emergency companies who at the moment are engaged on the scene,” he stated.
The Dutch royal household expressed related sentiments. “Our ideas are with these affected in The Hague after the explosion and fireplace this morning,’’ together with these “who’re afraid of the destiny of their family members,” King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima stated in a press release.
