Germany: An emergency response continues in Ratingen on May 11 following an earlier explosion /update 1

Event

Emergency crews are continuing their response to an earlier explosion in an apartment building on Berliner Strasse in Ratingen on May 11. Police and firefighters were responding to a distress call at the address when the explosion took place as they attempted to enter; ten firefighters and two police personnel were injured in the explosion. Police have subsequently deployed additional units to the area, cordoned off several streets, and evacuated nearby buildings. Further details, including the exact cause of the explosion, remain unclear.

Heightened security and disruptions to transport and business are likely in the area over the coming hours.

Ratingen is approximately 8 km (5 miles) northeast of Dusseldorf.

Advice

Avoid the incident site until authorities give the all-clear. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent the impacted area and any associated disruptions. Heed all instructions from local officials.