Seychelles Emerges from Emergency After Devastating Explosion and Flooding

President Wavel Ramkalawan described the aftermath of an explosion on Seychelles’ main island, Mahé, as akin to a war zone, highlighting extensive destruction. The blast, which occurred at a quarrying company storing explosives, was coupled with heavy rains leading to flooding, prompting a state of emergency. The emergency status has now been lifted, allowing normalcy to resume, except in the affected Providence Industrial Estate.

While no fatalities were reported, more than 170 casualties, primarily with light injuries, were recorded. Notably, the explosion’s impact reached the international airport, causing disruptions, with schools and hospitals operating for emergency cases only. Seychelles’ heavy reliance on tourism faces challenges due to the limitations imposed on movement, except for holiday islands.

In addition to the explosion, intense rain triggered severe flooding and landslides, resulting in the destruction of homes and the contamination of ocean waters, advising against swimming.

President Ramkalawan appealed for solidarity with affected individuals and declared the establishment of the 7th December Disaster Fund for monetary donations, acknowledging the public’s proactive response in offering aid and shelter to those affected.

An ongoing investigation seeks to ascertain the cause of the explosion, exploring potential malicious intent and evaluating alternative storage options for explosives to prevent future disasters.