A series of gas explosions on the streets of a southern Taiwanese city killed 15 people and injured 228 others late tonight, authorities said.
Taiwan's Premier Jiang Yi-huah said at least five explosions shook Kaohsiung. The National Fire Agency said five firefighters were among the dead.
Video from Taiwanese broadcaster ETTV showed a large fire burning the middle of a street, with smoke rising into the night sky.
A motorcycle and other debris were scattered across the middle of the roadway. Mobile phone video captured the sound of a secondary explosion as flames leapt at least 30 feet (9 meters) into the air.
The force of the initial blast also felled trees lining the street. Local TVBS showed cars flipped over and shattered windows.
Power was cut off in the area, making it difficult for firefighters to search for others who might be buried in rubble.
