Madrid, Spain - August 21, 2024

An explosion occurred in an apartment on the ninth floor of a building located at c/Arzobispo Morcillo, 42, in Madrid, leading to a significant emergency response operation. The incident, which took place early this morning, resulted in two women being rescued by the Madrid Fire Department (BomberosMad). Both victims suffered burns over 60% of their bodies.

The emergency services, including SAMUR_PC and SUMMA112, were quick to respond, providing immediate medical attention to the injured. The severity of their injuries necessitated their immediate transfer to La Paz Hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment for their critical condition.

The scene was also attended by various law enforcement agencies, including the Madrid Municipal Police, the National Police, and emergency social services (SamurSocialMAD), all of whom are working collaboratively to manage the aftermath of the explosion.

According to posts from the scene, the fire department's efforts post-rescue have shifted towards securing the building. Firefighters are engaged in debris removal to prevent any further hazards from unstable building elements. This operation is being conducted in conjunction with technical experts from Madrid's Urban Planning Control of Buildings, ensuring that the structural integrity of the building is assessed and maintained.

The Madrid Municipal Police's Aerial Support Section has also been deployed, using drones to assist in the assessment and monitoring of the situation from above, providing a comprehensive view of the damage and aiding in the strategic planning of the ongoing operations.

No fatalities have been reported, and the cause of the explosion remains under investigation. Authorities are urging residents to stay clear of the area as operations continue, emphasizing safety and caution in the wake of this unexpected event.