Athens: The explosion has caused a 2-storey residential building to collapse in the busy Plaka district, injuring 3 people and damaging nearby homes, shops and vehicles.
The blast occurred in the historic centre of Athens near major attractions including the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus. The force of the explosion sent rocks and broken glass as far as three blocks from the building. Fire crews and ambulances rushed to the scene as smoke rose above the historic monuments.
The damaged structure was reduced to twisted metal, broken balconies and hanging concrete slabs. Debris was scattered across nearby streets and surrounding properties and vehicles were also damaged.
Image Via: Doruk Aksel Anıl@Pexels| Cropped by BH
Plaka is a popular tourist neighbourhood known for narrow streets lined with cafes and souvenir shops. The area also has numerous hotels and short-term rental properties. The police noted that at least 5 people was staying in the building, part of which was rented to tourists.
Authorities have not established whether everyone inside the property has been accounted for or whether anyone remains trapped in the collapsed structure. Emergency crew continues working at the site while dealing with the damage and reported injuries.
The blast disrupts a busy part of Athens close to major tourist landmarks. Homes, shops and cars in the surrounding area was sustained damage, while broken glass and pieces of masonry have spread across nearby streets.
The cause of the explosion was not determined yet. Further information about additional casualties or people who may remain inside the building was not immediately available as emergency operations continued.
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