Explosion at a gas station in Rome: 45 injured and major evacuation!

Explosion at a gas station in Rome: 45 injured and major evacuation!

On July 4, 2025, there was a devastating explosion at a gas station in Rome, which left numerous people injured. As exxpress.at reports, a total of more than 45 people were injured, including at least ten police officers and a firefighter. The explosion occurred around 7:30 a.m. during an operation to deal with a gas leak that occurred while refilling the fuel tanks.

The detonation was so powerful that it could be heard across large parts of the city and rattled windows. Mayor Roberto Gualtieri described the incident as catastrophic and reported “enormous damage,” particularly to a nearby sports center where around 15 children were already present at the time. Fortunately, the sports center was evacuated in time before another 120 children were scheduled to take part in a swimming program.

Evacuations and emergency services

As a result of the explosion, around 50 people had to be evacuated from the buildings that were immediately damaged. The fire brigade and police had already brought surrounding buildings to safety before the explosion arrived. Details of the danger were accurately reported by eyewitnesses who spoke of a huge fireball and thick black smoke. RTL highlights that the explosion was audible throughout the city and flames reached a depot for confiscated vehicles behind the gas station.

However, the missions proved to be particularly challenging because there was an ambulance depot nearby where oxygen cylinders were stored. Important emergency numbers such as the fire department (112) and police (110) played a crucial role in dealing with the situation. In an emergency, it is recommended to provide the exact location and a brief description of the situation to ensure quick assistance, according to information from sanitaer-express.berlin.

Political reactions and effects

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni immediately contacted Mayor Gualtieri to find out about the situation and express her condolences to the injured. Pope Francis also spoke on X and said that he was praying for the victims of the explosion. Although no one's life was in danger, firefighters, police officers and pedestrians were taken to hospital with burns.

The Prenestino district, where the explosion occurred, is a densely populated part of Rome and known for its mix of historic and modern buildings. The architectural landscape of the district reflects the development of the city and is characterized by a mixture of industrial architecture and post-war buildings.

The explosion not only caused immediate damage, but also increased awareness of safety measures when dealing with gas accidents. An emergency plan that includes all important contacts could be crucial in such situations.