People could be seen rushing down a street with shattered windows and other damage visible. Video / AFPA huge blast and fire has broken out in the central Dutch city of Utrecht, with several buildings collapsing and at least four people lightly injured, according to the mayor. “Fortunately, according to initial reports, there is no one seriously injured directly by the explosion,” she added. Damage to buildings in Visscherssteeg following an explosion in Utrecht. Photo / Jonas Roosens, AFPAfter several hours, firefighters succeeded in extinguishing the blaze that broke out at around 3.30pm on Thursday (local time) following what emergency services described as a “gigantic” explosion.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 16, 2026 00:02 UTC