Sierra Leone: Emergency response ongoing in Freetown as of early Nov. 6 following fuel tanker explosion overnight Nov. 5-6

Event

Emergency operations are ongoing in the vicinity of Bai Bureh Road in the Wellington area of Freetown early Nov. 6 following a fuel tanker explosion overnight Nov. 5-6. Reports indicate the explosion occurred after the tanker collided with another vehicle. The explosion and subsequent fire has killed dozens of people, with some reports putting the upper limit of fatalities at approximately 90 people.

An increased security presence is likely as emergency operations continue. Localized ground travel disruptions are almost certain in the impacted area through at least the remainder of Nov. 6.

Advice

Monitor local media for updates on road status. Confirm road status and seek alternative routes to reach destinations in the affected area; allow additional travel time. Delivery disruptions are possible; consider delaying or rerouting shipments until road access normalizes. Heed all security personnel instructions.