Kazakhstan: Explosion at munitions depot near Taraz injures at least 60 people Aug. 26 /update 1

Event

Authorities are investigating a series of explosions following a fire at a munitions depot near the village of Kainar outside of Taraz, in the Jambyl region's Bayzak District; the incident occurred around 19:00 Aug. 26. The explosions injured at least 60 people; as of yet there have been no reports of fatalities. In the wake of the incident, responders evacuated the villages of Kainar, Bazarbai, Ush-Bulak, and Zhanaturmys and closed down nearby thoroughfares and suspended rail traffic transiting the area. Authorities have indicated that they have the situation under control.

Heightened security, as well as localized business and transport disruptions, are likely around the blast site through at least Aug. 27.

Advice

Avoid the scene of the incident until authorities have completed their investigation and given the all-clear. Seek alternative routes to circumvent the affected through Aug. 27.