A massive explosion followed by a large blaze occurred early Thursday morning at a warehouse in the Uzbekistan capital Tashkent, according to Reuters and AFP news agencies, citing local media reports.
The shock wave from the early morning blast shattered dozens of windows in nearby apartment blocks and some people were being treated for injuries, according to Uzbekistan's Health Ministry, but none of those were serious.
The cause of the explosion was unclear, with one report of "strong lightning". The ministry said a "special laboratory" had been set up at the scene to investigate the explosion.
Several videos circulating on social media showed a huge column of fire and smoke billowing into the night sky.
The blast happened at a warehouse close to Tashkent’s airport, according to Reuters, citing local news site Daryo.
MNA/PR