Seychelles declare a State of emergency after huge explosion
The Seychelles government has declared a state of emergency and ordered all citizens except essential workers to stay at home, after a huge explosion and heavy flooding rocked the island nation on Thursday. The explosion occurred at an industrial zone on the main island, Mahé, and caused extensive damage and casualties. The flooding was triggered by torrential rain that submerged several areas and disrupted transport and communication.
According to the Seychelles President, Wavel Ramkalawan, the explosion was caused by a gas leak at a storage facility owned by the Seychelles Petroleum Company (SEPEC). The blast was so powerful that it was heard and felt across the island, and shattered windows and doors of nearby buildings. The president said that at least 15 people were killed and more than 100 injured by the explosion, and that the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue.
_What was said_
“The Seychelles international Airport is still operational and ferry services between islands are operating for visitors,” the country’s official account said on X.
The president also said that the flooding was the worst in the country’s history, and that it had affected more than half of the population. He said that many homes, businesses, and infrastructure were destroyed or damaged by the floodwaters, and that some people were still trapped or missing. He said that the government had mobilized all its resources and personnel to respond to the emergency, and that it had requested assistance from the international community.
The president appealed to the citizens to remain calm and cooperative, and to follow the instructions of the authorities. He said that the state of emergency was necessary to ensure the safety and security of the people, and to facilitate the relief and recovery efforts. He said that the government would provide food, water, shelter, and medical care to the affected people, and that it would conduct a thorough investigation into the causes and consequences of the disaster.
The president also expressed his condolences to the families and friends of the victims, and his solidarity with the survivors. He said that the Seychelles was a resilient and united nation, and that it would overcome this tragedy with courage and faith. He said that the government was committed to restoring normalcy and stability as soon as possible, and to rebuilding the country better and stronger.we
The explosion and the flooding have shocked and saddened the Seychelles and the world, and have drawn messages of sympathy and support from various leaders and organizations. The United Nations, the African Union, the European Union, and several countries have offered their assistance and cooperation to the Seychelles in this difficult time. The Seychelles is a small island state in the Indian Ocean, with a population of about 100,000 people. It is known for its tourism, fisheries, and biodiversity.
