Explosion at Qatar's major gas field, over 50 injured

At least 54 people have been injured and 18 are reported missing following a massive explosion at the Ras Laffan gas field, Qatar's main industrial facility, authorities said on Sunday, June 21.

The explosion occurred around 10:30 pm local time at the Ras Laffan Industrial City in northern Qatar. The blast was so powerful that tremors were felt in the capital Doha and surrounding areas, with many residents initially mistaking it for an earthquake or an attack.

Qatar's Ministry of Interior said the explosion was caused by a technical fault at one of the facilities in the industrial area. Civil defence, police and rescue teams rushed to the scene and brought the fire under control. Rescue operations are ongoing to locate the missing persons.

Authorities said no gas or other hazardous chemical leaks have been detected, meaning there is no immediate health risk to the public outside the accident site.

Ras Laffan is the centre of Qatar's liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry. An investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the explosion and the extent of the damage.