Explosions in Vilnius: LPG train catches fire – surrounding area evacuated

A serious incident occurred in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius on Wednesday: while transferring liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from a train to a terminal, a fire broke out, causing powerful explosions.

The fire broke out at around 9:30 a.m. The flames were so intense that dozens of firefighters were unable to approach the source of the fire for hours.

The authorities ordered the evacuation of the population within a one-kilometer radius of the train station.

The LPG came from a Lithuanian refinery owned by the Polish company Orlen, but transport and terminal operations were carried out by an external company.

According to Orlen, there is no evidence of arson at this stage. The company is working with the terminal operators and the authorities to determine the cause.

The explosions were so violent that they could be felt in the city center. One person was injured.
A Russian passenger train was diverted before entering the danger zone.

(reuters, red)