A powerful explosion struck the Ras Laffan LNG complex in Qatar, the world’s largest liquefied natural gas production hub, leaving more than 50 people injured and 18 others reported missing.
According to local authorities, the incident occurred at the Barzan facility, which supplies the domestic market. Preliminary reports indicate that a technical malfunction during restart operations triggered the explosion.
The blast caused a major fire at the site, which was later brought under control. Operator QatarEnergy stated that no hazardous leaks threatening public safety had been detected.
Emergency teams continue searching for the missing workers, while the full extent of the damage remains unclear. Authorities have not yet determined how the incident could affect Qatar’s LNG exports.
Ras Laffan had previously operated under significant restrictions following regional tensions and damage sustained earlier this year. Industry sources suggest that restoring full production capacity could take several years.
An official investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing.
