wentworth oil refinery explosion 12

Photo: Supplied

Watch: Huge explosion rips through Wentworth oil refinery

Flames have engulfed an oil refinery in Wentworth on Friday morning, following an enormous explosion at the Engen-run facility.

wentworth oil refinery explosion 12

Photo: Supplied

An enormous explosion has been reported at an Engen oil refinery in Wentworth, Durban on Friday. The early morning blast shook residents from their slumber, as flames billowed from the structure shortly afterwards. Emergency services are currently operating at the scene, as the fire continues to burn throughout the day.

Oil refinery explosion rocks KZN

Thankfully, no deaths have been reported as of 8:30 and injuries are seemingly minimal. Half a dozen people are receiving medical treatment for smoke inhalation, however. A block of flats across from the refinery also caught fire, but the building has been safely evacuated with no casualties to speak of.

Videos from the scene show the extent of the damage. The blaze could be seen from miles away, as clouds of smoke formed high in the sky of Wentworth. Those nearby were able to see the raging flames as they destroyed steel mechanisms and concrete towers. The eventual cost of this explosion could run up a bill of millions for Engen.

Watch: Engen oil refinery explosion in Wentworth

Emergency response to the Wentworth fire

KZN Emergency Services were the first responders on the scene. They confirmed that the battle is being won to control the damage, as firefighters have had success in tackling the blazing inferno. A spokesperson for the team confirmed that the volume of smoke is now ‘receding’ at the refinery – and it’s a huge relief that everyone has got out of this unscathed.

“Emergency services are currently at the scene of a fire in Wentworth, Durban. At 7:00 this morning, there was an explosion at a local oil refinery. No deaths have been reported, and six people are being treated for smoke inhalation. As it stands, the flames are no longer visible and the smoke is receding at the scene of the blast.”

KZN EMS