Seychelles: Mr. Wavel Ramkalwan, Seychelles President, has declared a state of emergency after a massive explosion at an industrial zone on the main island, Mahe, and heavy rains.
Authorities stated that the explosion rocked the island as heavy rains triggered flooding which killed at least two people. The President has ordered all citizens, except workers for essential services, to stay at home.
The explosion occurred at a construction and quarrying company that stored explosives, causing widespread destruction in Providence’s industrial area.
“Following an explosion at the CCCL explosives store that has caused massive damage to the Providence Industrial area and the surrounding areas and major destruction caused by flooding due to heavy rains, the President has declared a State of Emergency for today the 7th December,” President’s office said in a statement.
The statement added that, “Everyone is being asked to stay at home. All schools will be closed. Only workers in the essential services and persons travelling will be allowed free movement.”
“The Seychelles International Airport is still operational and ferry services between islands are operating for visitors,” the country’s official account said on social media platform X.
Seychelles, a major tourist destination, consists of 115 islands and is the least populous country in Africa with about 100,000 people. The archipelago is well-known for its idyllic white beaches and high-end tourism. Mahe, where the capital Victoria is located, is home to 87 percent of the country’s population.
The UK government has advised its citizens on the island of Mahé to stay indoors until further notice.
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