Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan declared a state of emergency on Thursday after a blast at an explosives depot and heavy rains damaged an industrial zone and surrounding areas.
“Everyone is being asked to stay at home. All schools will be closed. Only workers in the essential services and persons travelling will be allowed free movement,” Ramkalwan’s office said in a statement following an explosives depot explosion in the Providence industrial area in Mahe morning of Dec. 7. The blast has reportedly caused significant damage to the site and surrounding areas. Preliminary reports indicate about 100 people were injured in the incident. The cause of the explosion remains unclear. Officials have advised people to stay home; exceptions are made for workers in essential services and those with scheduled flights.
We express our solidarity to the Government & People of Seychelles following damage to the Providence Industrial area & disruptions caused by heavy rains. Hoping that Seychelles quickly recovers from this disaster. My thoughts are with my brother Wavel.@StateHouseSey
— Pravind Kumar Jugnauth (@KumarJugnauth) December 7, 2023
A large presence of emergency personnel is likely at the depot and surrounding areas in the coming hours and days. Transport and business disruptions are likely. Additional evacuations and road closures are possible.
