The center of Utrecht in the Netherlands was rocked by at least two powerful explosions on Thursday afternoon, though there were no immediate reports of fatalities. Videos and photos from the scene show debris scattered across the street and fires, while an eyewitness reported that one explosion occurred (around 15:38 local time, 16:38 in Greece) causing several injuries. As crowds gathered to see what had happened, a second explosion took place.
A fire service spokesperson told Dutch radio and television that a fire had broken out in the building where the explosion occurred and there was a risk of collapse. Damage was also reported to neighboring buildings.
Utrecht explosions: authorities on high alert, area evacuated
The picture regarding casualties remains unclear. At least one person has been injured, while other sources put the number at 10, though their condition remains unknown.
Police proceeded to evacuate surrounding streets in a wide radius from the location in the city’s historic center. Authorities cannot rule out the possibility of further explosions.
The causes remain unknown.
In the center of Utrecht, Netherlands there are reports of a large fire and several explosions in the Visscherssteeg. Images show that it is chaos and that there is debris everywhere https://t.co/SjwV2DnUs4 pic.twitter.com/KNPitbkTc2
— Finally Did it 💫 (@Finallydiditonx) January 15, 2026
At least ten people were injured after an explosion and large fire erupted in Utrecht, Netherlands. pic.twitter.com/qI0Sbt0qu4
— Breaking Alert (@BreakingAlert_) January 15, 2026
