Rush hour in Johannesburg…South Africa’s largest city. And like rush hour everywhere…traffic jammed up, moving slow but moving. Pedestrians preparing to catch a ride home in minibus taxis. But on Wednesday afternoon of last week, there was one unplanned and unwelcomed development: the street exploded under the traffic and the pedestrians.
Vehicles were lifted into the air, moved feet from they were originally parked or completely turned upside down. One person was killed as a vehicle landed on top of him. Others walking along the street where the explosion occurred ran for safety away from the area. Store fronts were closed and mass confusion happened. 34 vehicles were reportedly damaged along a five city blocks there were affected by the explosion.
Authorities are saying that the explosion was caused by a toxic gas leak linked to an alleged illegal gold processing operation. Their investigation continues.
Read more here as well as see the video of the event.
