At least four injured as fire and explosions hit Utrecht city centre

At least four people were injured after a large fire and explosions hit a residential building in the Dutch city of Utrecht, authorities said.

The incident happened near Visscherssteeg, a narrow alley in a busy central area. Local media report extensive damage to surrounding buildings.

Utrecht’s mayor told public broadcaster NOS that it is possible more people are still trapped under the rubble. The cause of the fire is not yet known.

Residents have been told to evacuate, and members of the public have been advised to stay away from the area.

The local fire department said crews could not enter the building because of the risk of collapse.

The Utrecht Safety Region described the incident as a “gigantic explosion”. Emergency services received multiple reports of explosions in the afternoon, with nearby streets cordoned off as firefighters battled the flames.

The fire later spread to a nearby bakery, according to local reports. A temporary emergency hospital has been set up in the city centre, usually reserved for incidents involving a large number of casualties.

Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes, with reports of a powerful blast, shattered windows and damage to nearby buildings.

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