Major explosion in Cologne sparks lockdown – several injured

A MASSIVE explosion has ripped through the heart of downtown Cologne in Burgmauer near the statdtmuseum.

The gas explosion took place at 7.29pm in the German city, according to BILD newspaper.

It has led to a lockdown of the surrounding area.

Reports suggest that it rocked the cellar of a house in a recording studio.

Two people were seriously injured and four others were hurt in the incident. 

The two who were seriously injured have been taken to a hospital in Merheim.

Several firefighters have arrived on



scene to deal with the incident.

Police immediately cordoned off the surrounding area as they investigate further.

An initial investigation suggests that the cause of the explosion was probably a deflagration in a propane bottle in the basement of the building.

The fire department suspects that the explosion was caused by two propane bottles in the basement area which held around 20 litres of gas.

However, the gas explosion did not spark a fire.

A structural engineer is currently checking the stability of the building to ensure that it is safe.