SYDNEY, Australia – An urgent search is currently ongoing in Sydney’s western suburbs after a townhouse partially collapsed following an explosion. Emergency crews rushed to the scene on Waikanda Crescent in Whalan, where a person is believed to be trapped under the rubble. Fire and Rescue NSW Superintendent Ross Genders stated that there is still one individual missing and trapped in the debris.
The explosion, which occurred around 12:50 pm, resulted in the collapse of the home, causing minor injuries to five individuals. Among the injured are a woman in her 60s and a wheelchair-bound woman in her 70s, who were all taken to hospitals and are reported to be in stable condition. The search efforts are concentrated on the back side of the building where the most rubble has fallen, with rescuers meticulously clearing debris in hopes of locating the missing person.
Intensive care paramedics are also at the scene, attending to the situation. The blast not only damaged the building but also affected neighboring townhouses within the complex. Authorities have taken precautionary measures by cutting off the gas supply to the area amidst ongoing investigations to determine the cause of the explosion. Nearby residents reported significant damages to their properties, with shattered windows and ceilings due to the impact of the blast.
As the search and rescue operation continues, more than a dozen Fire and Rescue units, including specialized HAZMAT and aerial drone teams, have been deployed. Police mentioned that it may take several days to unravel the circumstances leading to the explosion. In light of the incident, the public has been advised to steer clear of the area, with local traffic diversions in place to ensure safety. Emergency responders are working diligently to secure the site and coordinate efforts to locate and rescue the individual believed to be trapped under the rubble.