Residents barred from returning to homes after the Hague explosion
The residents of an apartment complex in The Hague where a partial building collapse took place on Saturday morning were not going to be allowed to return to their homes at least until Sunday. A series of explosions went off at the site on Tarwekamp at about 6:15 a.m., leaving at least four people dead and three people hurt.
Five apartments were completely destroyed, and another 14 have sustained significant damage. “Residents from all 40 evacuated homes will not be able to return, and the duration of the evacuation is still unknown,” the municipality said in a statement.
The area is not safe, the city said. "It is necessary to take various measures. To ensure safety and to prevent the disruption of public order, the mayor has issued an emergency order." This gives police the authority to order anyone who does not belong in the area to leave at once.
"It is forbidden for anyone, except for people with a valid interest such as residents and emergency services, to enter the area between the Reigersbergenweg, the Boekweitkamp, the VUC sports fields and the Kleine Loo," the city stated. Mayor Jan van Zanen's order will remain in effect at least until Monday at 5 p.m.
The incident took place at about 6:15 a.m. Three adults were found injured, including one transported in critical condition. Another child was rescued alive, but their sibling was missing. Many others were believed to be trapped under the rubble During a press conference at around 3:15 p.m., Van Zanen said anyone still trapped under the rubble was likely to be dead. The remains of four victims were found in the ensuing three hours, but one person was also found alive around 6 p.m.
Emergency responders continue to search for potential victims under the rubble, using dogs and drones to assist in their efforts. While the fire has been extinguished, the building remains unstable. Due to the risk of further collapse, access to the site remains highly restricted. Residents in the surrounding area were advised to keep windows and doors closed due to the health risks posed by the smoke.
To support displaced residents, the municipality has set up temporary shelters at the former district office on Loudonstraat 95, where staff from the Red Cross and the city are providing immediate assistance. Those in need of further support can also visit the Mariahoeve community center at Ivoorhorst 155.
For those seeking information about missing family members or friends, the hotline "Ik Zoek Mijn Naaste" can be reached at 088-0908000. Additional questions about the situation can be directed to the municipal information line at 070-353-5750.
Officials have cordoned off the area, erecting screens to block visibility as rescue operations continue.
