In Riga, in Torņakalns, the roof of a multi-story building collapsed due to a gas explosion, reported the State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD).
The VUGD reports that in the afternoon, at 15:20, a call was received for Bauskas Street, and currently, rescuers are working at the scene.
According to initial data, there was a collapse of structures on the upper floors of the apartment building. People are being evacuated from the building.
The State Police reported that, according to preliminary information, an unidentified person may have been dismantling a gas pipeline, which caused the explosion. The circumstances of the incident are currently being investigated.
Local residents told the LETA agency that the explosion was so powerful that doors and windows were blown out in some apartments, which were damaged. A smell of gas was also felt before the explosion.
At the same time, residents are currently uncertain about the further development of events. Residents of nearby houses are showing responsiveness, offering food and temporary shelter, local residents told the LETA agency.
According to the Riga City Council, for currently unknown reasons, an explosion occurred in the five-story apartment building due to damage to the gas pipeline, resulting in the collapse of the fourth and fifth floors of the building, as well as the roof.
Currently, more than 40 residents have been evacuated. They have been given the opportunity to stay in buses provided by Rīgas satiksme. A building inspector will examine the building shortly to make a decision on its further use.
Evacuated residents can contact the Riga Social Department by calling 80001201.
Residents are also encouraged to contact the Social Department if they require other assistance, such as clothing, food packages, document recovery, or other forms of social support.
