At least 50 individuals have been injured in an explosion at a petrol station in Rome.

The blast happened during fuel refilling operations and is believed to have been triggered by a suspected gas leak on July 4 morning.

Aerial footage shows thick black smoke billowing into the air as flames spread rapidly in Casilino.

Ten emergency teams were dispatched to combat the blaze, which extended to a judicial storage depot located behind the petrol station.

Local media reported that firefighters and ambulance workers were among those caught in the explosion, having been called to the scene earlier after a truck struck a pipeline at the site.

Several people were injured, including 12 police officers and six firefighters.

Victims were promptly taken to hospital, with two in critical condition suffering severe burns and requiring ventilation support.

The operation remains active as crews work to contain the fire and secure the area.