A significant explosion that shook Nairobi’s Embakasi area on Thursday night left over 200 wounded and sent to the hospital.

According to locals, the terrifying midnight explosion that was captured on camera happened at Kentainers Company close to Kabansora in Embakasi, Nairobi.

The Kenya Red Cross provided an update on Friday morning stating that 271 people had been taken from the area and taken to different hospitals in the capital.

“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.

On-site care was provided for an additional 27 people.

Officials were restocking gas cylinders when the blast happened, according to government spokesman Isaac Mwaura, who also verified the event.

“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.

A multi-agency response group was on the site and fighting the flames, according to a previous statement from the Kenya Red Cross.