Colleferro: A massive explosion ripped through a munitions plant near Rome on Thursday, sending a huge plume of smoke into the sky and alarming residents across the surrounding area. The blast was reportedly heard for kilometres, while emergency teams rushed to contain the fire.
Fire triggers powerful explosion
The explosion occurred at the KNDS Ammo Italy facility in Colleferro, southeast of Rome. Firefighters and police were already at the site responding to a fire when the blast occurred.
The explosion appeared to have originated in the plant’s powder-pressing department. Images and videos showed a towering cloud of smoke above the industrial site as firefighters worked to control the blaze. The fire also spread to nearby vegetation.
All 24 workers who were inside the facility at the time were reportedly accounted for, with employees sheltering in secure areas during the emergency.
No casualties reported
Despite the intensity of the explosion, no injuries or deaths were reported. Colleferro Mayor Giulio Calamita said the situation was under control and urged residents to remain calm.
The blast occurred during the summer holiday period when the plant was closed, with limited personnel present. The mayor said the timing helped avert what could have been a much more serious tragedy.
Around 10 firefighting teams, supported by a helicopter, were involved in efforts to extinguish the remaining flames.
Investigation begins
KNDS said the circumstances surrounding the incident were being investigated and assessed by teams at the site. The definitive cause of the explosion had not been established.
The facility produces medium- and large-calibre ammunition for land and naval defence systems, as well as solid propellants for aerospace launch vehicles.
The incident has also revived memories of a 2007 explosion at the same plant that killed one worker and injured 13 others. Authorities are continuing to assess the latest incident and its impact.