Brussels, August 5, 2024 — Two people sustained injuries following a powerful explosion caused by a gas cooker in the Anneessens neighbourhood of central Brussels on Monday night.
The blast, which occurred at approximately 22:45, severely damaged a ground-floor studio in a three-storey building on Rue d’Artois, situated between the city centre and Brussels-Midi station.
Emergency services were swiftly dispatched to the scene after the explosion was reported. The Brussels Fire Brigade, arriving promptly, established a security perimeter to keep residents away from the damaged area.
Firefighters managed to rescue three cats from the affected building, though the studio where the explosion occurred was left in ruins.
According to the Brussels Fire Brigade, the two individuals injured in the blast were taken to a local hospital. One person suffered minor burns, while the condition of the other was reported as stable. Fortunately, neither of the victims’ lives are in imminent danger.
The explosion was so intense that it blew out the windows and wooden framework of the building’s front facade.
The studio itself was completely destroyed and rendered uninhabitable. Despite the extensive damage to the studio, the rest of the building remained stable, and the other residents were able to return to their homes, which had not sustained significant damage.
Fire brigade spokesperson Walter Derieuw indicated that the cause of the explosion remains under investigation. “It is not yet clear how the gas cooker exploded,” Derieuw stated. “An investigation will have to determine that.”
The explosion highlights ongoing concerns about the safety of household appliances and the potential risks associated with gas cooking equipment.
As authorities work to understand the precise cause of the incident, residents are advised to be cautious and ensure their gas appliances are properly maintained.
The fire brigade’s swift response and the efforts to secure the area likely prevented further injuries or damage. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures and the need for regular checks of household gas appliances.
As the investigation continues, additional details will be provided to the public. The Brussels Fire Brigade is working closely with other agencies to address any safety concerns and prevent future occurrences of similar incidents.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
