Explosion Hits The Hague Block of Flats, Several Homes Collapse

Explosion Hits The Hague: Block of Flats Collapses

A powerful explosion rocked a three-storey block of flats in The Hague early this morning, causing several homes in the Tarwekamp area to collapse. Emergency services were alerted at 06:15 (05:15 GMT) and rushed to extinguish the ensuing fire while rescuers began their search for survivors.

Rescue Efforts Underway

Authorities fear up to 20 people may have been in the building at the time of the explosion. So far, four individuals have been pulled from the rubble. Rescue teams equipped with sniffer dogs are working diligently, although parts of the debris remain too dangerous to access.

Community in Shock

Fourteen-year-old Adam Muller, a local resident, described the incident as terrifying:
“I was asleep and suddenly there was this huge bang. It felt like an earthquake.”

The local community is grappling with disbelief and uncertainty, according to National Police Commissioner Janny Knol.

Police Investigation

The cause of the explosion remains unclear, but Dutch police reported that a car was seen speeding away from the scene shortly after the blast. Authorities have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Royal Condolences

In a statement, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima expressed their sympathy:
“We sympathise with all those who have been personally affected or who fear for the fate of their loved ones.”