Uncontrolled explosions at a police explosion site sparked a major fire in Berlin on Thursday morning. The flames have already spread to an adjacent forest. However, the fire brigade cannot extinguish the fire at close range at this time, because there is still a chance of further explosions and flying debris.
“The situation is confusing. The forest continues to burn uncontrollably,” a fire department spokesman told bild.de. According to the newspaper, about 50 tons of ammunition are stored on the police grounds near Grunewald.
Currently, the emergency services have withdrawn to 1000 meters. There are 100 firefighters and police officers on the scene. Additional troops and special troops of the Bundeswehr are requested.
Train traffic suspended
The railway announced on its website that both regional and long-distance traffic had been interrupted. The Avus, Kronprinzessinnenweg and Havelchaussee motorways are closed in this area. Residents should keep windows and doors closed – ventilation and air conditioning should be turned off. Videos of Berliners recording the sound of the blast using cell phone cameras circulated on social media (see tweet below).
Cause of explosion still unclear
“We are currently in the consultation and observation phase,” said the fire service spokesman. With a drone and a police helicopter they try to get a picture of the situation. A fire-fighting helicopter has also been requested. A police spokesperson said it is still unclear how the explosion could have happened. Found ammunition is stored on the square and defused in a controlled manner by the explosive ordnance disposal service of the Berlin police.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
