NAIROBI, Kenya — The Southern Bypass has been temporarily closed after a fuel tanker caught fire and exploded following a serious road accident under a bridge, police confirmed.
The tanker reportedly fell from the highway onto the lower road and ignited, creating a massive fireball and prompting an immediate emergency response due to the high risk of explosion.
Firefighters and police teams have secured the area and are working to contain the blaze.
Nairobi police boss George Seda said additional emergency responders have been deployed to manage the situation.
Authorities warned that the fire could spread to nearby structures, and they urged residents and motorists to stay away from the scene.
Details of the crash remain limited, but witnesses said several road users, including boda boda riders, rushed to the scene to scoop spilled fuel shortly after the accident.
Such actions increase the risk of further explosions and injuries.
The Kenya Red Cross confirmed the incident in a post on X, saying the explosion occurred near Ram Residency along the Southern Bypass.
A road traffic incident involving a lorry and a fuel tanker, which led to an explosion, has been reported near Ram Residency along the Southern Bypass.The highway has been temporarily closed. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes.
The humanitarian agency also advised motorists to use alternative routes while the highway remains closed.
Traffic Advisory
- Motorists should avoid the Southern Bypass until further notice
- Alternative routes are recommended due to expected congestion
- Do not approach the accident site
- Follow instructions from traffic police and emergency responders
Authorities have urged the public to stay alert to smoke and restricted movement in surrounding areas while emergency teams continue containment operations.
