2 dead, over 200 injured in massive gas explosion in Kenya’s capital

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) - A massive explosion at a gas company in Nairobi has left two people dead, and over 200 others injured, Kenyan authorities said on Friday.

"Two fellow Kenyans have regrettably lost their lives while being attended to at the Nairobi West Hospital," Kenya government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said.

"In addition, 222 other Kenyans were injured by the fire, and have been rushed to various hospitals," Mwaura added.

The flames extended to residential houses, catching many residents off guard, he said.

The impact of the blast was felt over 10 kilometers away, with the official saying it also caused extensive damage to cars and buildings.

John Mwangi, a resident of Embakasi, recounted the horrifying moment when the explosion occurred.

"I heard this deafening blast, and when I rushed outside, I saw a huge ball of fire resembling a mushroom cloud, stretching over 100 meters high, despite being cold, I could feel the heat," he told Anadolu.

The exact cause of the explosion is still under investigation.