An explosion in a propane tank, potentially due to the high temperatures recorded this Monday in Guadix, has caused alarm among residents of a three-building complex in the Granada town. Residents detected a strong smell of gas at midday.
The incident, which resulted in no personal or material damage, has been brought under control by the firefighters of the Provincial Council of Granada. A unit remains on site while the supplying company is using a "torch," a mechanism to burn off excess propane and regulate the affected tank.
The 112 emergency service of the Andalusian Agency for Emergencies received the alert shortly after 1:30 PM, reporting a strong gas odor at a building on Avenida Emperatriz Eugenia de Montijo. Firefighters, the Guardia Civil, local police, and representatives from the supplying company were dispatched to the scene.
The deputy inspector of the Guadix fire department, Miguel Pérez, explained that upon arrival, firefighters confirmed the leak originated from one of three propane tanks connected in series for hot water and heating, located on the building's rooftop. Detectors indicated non-hazardous levels, but residents were evacuated as a precaution.
According to the gas company's technician, a larger-than-normal propane load had been delivered that morning, possibly due to a faulty pressure gauge. Firefighters and the company deduce that the city's high temperatures at the time caused overpressure within the tank, triggering the safety valve.
During the firefighters' operation, two more minor explosions occurred without consequences. The company has decided to install a "torch" to burn off the excess propane, a process expected to continue throughout the afternoon. Residents are advised not to use the elevator and to refrain from using gas for heating water.
