An explosion has obliterated several flats and caused injuries to numerous individuals in the Netherlands.
Individuals residing in the Mariahoeve area of The Hague reported hearing a loud bang accompanied by screams prior to dawn.
One woman recounted to local media that she believed there had been an earthquake.
A segment of an apartment building collapsed, igniting a fire in the process.
Officials confirmed that four individuals were pulled from the wreckage and transported to the hospital, noting that others might still be ensnared within.
Pics: AP
One individual informed the broadcaster NOS that they heard a child crying for assistance as the structure burned.
Photographs taken from a higher building nearby and shared on social media platform X revealed that one section housing five apartments had been turned into ashes and debris.
Pics: AP
A number of ambulances were observed waiting in the vicinity, prepared for more casualties.
A representative from the local medical facility indicated they were ready to address injuries.
Dutch officials have dispatched a specialized urban search and rescue team to the location, along with four trained dogs tasked with locating victims.
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof expressed his shock upon viewing images of the catastrophe and pledged support to local officials.
The reason for the explosion remains uncertain.
This developing news story will be updated as more information becomes available.
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