Turkey: Emergency personnel responding to oil pipeline explosion in Pazarcik, Kahramanmaras Province, late Jan. 18

Event

Emergency personnel are responding to an explosion in an oil pipeline in Pazarcik District, Kahramanmaras Province, late Jan. 18. Authorities have cut off oil to the pipeline and are working to put out a fire. The highway between Kahramanmaras and Gaziantep is temporarily closed due to the blaze. No casualties have been reported, and officials are saying homes in the area are not at risk. An investigation into the cause of the explosion is ongoing.

Heightened security, as well as localized traffic and business disruptions, are likely in the affected area in the coming hours. Crews could evacuate buildings near the incident site as a precaution. Lingering disruptions are possible until authorities conclude their investigation.

Pazarcik District is located 34 km (21 miles) southeast of Kahramanmaras.

Advice

Avoid the area until the situation stabilizes and authorities give the all-clear. Heed all official transport and security instructions. Plan for localized traffic congestion in nearby areas; allow additional time to reach destinations.