A powerful gas-air mixture explosion tore through a grocery store in southeastern Kazakhstan, injuring three people and causing significant structural damage.

The incident occurred in the village of Karabulak in the Eskeldinsky district of the Zhetysu region on the evening of the previous day, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

Emergency crews quickly responded to the scene, deploying 27 personnel and six units of specialized equipment to contain the aftermath and secure the damaged building.

Building Partially Collapses After Blast

The explosion caused a partial collapse of the store’s outer wall and roof, damaging approximately 36 square meters of the structure. Debris and structural instability forced authorities to restrict access while emergency services assessed the safety of the site.

Three people were injured in the blast and rushed to the district central hospital. Doctors said the victims are in stable condition with moderate injuries and remain conscious.

Authorities Investigate Cause of Explosion

Officials from the regional Department of Emergency Situations said the exact cause of the explosion is still under investigation. Specialists are working to determine whether a gas leak or equipment malfunction triggered the blast.

Local authorities also warned residents of temporary water supply disruptions on several streets as emergency repair and recovery work continues.

Series of Gas-Related Incidents Raises Safety Concerns

The explosion follows another recent gas-related incident in Kazakhstan, when a gas cylinder exploded in a street kiosk in Karaganda, sparking a fire and injuring four people. Emergency crews managed to remove additional gas cylinders from the scene, preventing further escalation.