Over 200 injured after major explosion at a gas filling station in Embakasi

The scary midnight explosion which was caught on camera by residents in the area is said to have occurred at Kentainers Company near Kabansora in Embakasi, Nairobi.

In an update issued Friday morning, Kenya Red Cross said 271 persons had been evacuated from the scene and rushed to various hospitals within the city.

"The concerted actions of various response units have resulted in the successful evacuation of 271 individuals to different health facilities in Nairobi," said the Kenya Red Cross.

An extra 27 individuals were attended to on-site.

Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura also confirmed the incident saying workers were refilling gas cylinders when the explosion occurred.

"The company was refilling gas cylinders when the fire broke out and several people were injured and rushed to hospital. The building hosting the company is badly damaged. The cause of the fire remains unknown," said Mwaura.

"Members of the public are advised to avoid the area as rescue operations are underway including fire engines being deployed to the area."

"Preliminary data shows at least 165 people injured," the Standard reported.

The Kenya Red Cross in an earlier statement said a multi-agency response force was at the scene and battling the flames.