Russia: Explosion reported at gas station in Makhachkala Aug. 14

Event

An explosion occurred at a Naftagaz gas station in Makhachkala on the evening of Aug. 14. The blast killed at least 5; while the number of injured has not been announced, authorities indicate it to be at least several dozen. The explosion also caused a fire in the surrounding area that has spread to nearby homes; authorities have evacuated the impacted residents.

Emergency services are at the scene of the explosion, and heightened security is likely near the blast site over the coming hours.

Advice

Avoid the area of the explosion. Allow additional travel time in Makhachkala due to emergency response-related disruptions. Strictly heed all authorities' instructions.