Haiti: Fuel tanker explosion kills at least 50 people in Cap-Haitien Dec. 13

Event

Recovery operations are ongoing in Cap-Haitien following a fuel tanker truck explosion that killed at least 50 people late Dec. 13. According to reports, the truck swerved to avoid another vehicle and crashed. While onlookers converged on the scene the truck exploded, resulting in the fatalities. Several dozen people were also injured and multiple structures, including 20 houses, were damaged or destroyed. Temporary hospitals have been set up to treat the wounded. Prime Minister Ariel Henry declared three days of national mourning due to the incident. The casualty count will likely rise in the coming days.

An increased security presence is likely as emergency operations continue. Localized ground travel disruptions are almost certain in the impacted area in the coming days. Medical care may be limited while healthcare professionals treat the wounded.

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.