A powerful explosion has shaken Vladikavkaz in Russia's North Ossetia-Alania, sending thick black smoke high into the sky and causing significant destruction.

Witnesses described a loud blast followed by a towering column of black smoke rising up to 30 meters, The Caspian Post reports via Russian media.

💥Eight people, including one child, were injured in an explosion in Vladikavkaz.

Emergency services are working at the scene, and debris removal is ongoing. pic.twitter.com/eS5YpmkYZc

— The Caspian Post (@thecaspianpost) April 10, 2026

The explosion was likely caused by the detonation of fireworks stored improperly near a construction materials warehouse belonging to “HDM” company.

The force of the blast partially destroyed a nearby building, scattering concrete slabs and debris across several meters. Around ten vehicles were damaged by flying fragments, with additional cars affected in surrounding streets.

At least eight people have been reported injured. Several victims were hospitalized in regional medical facilities, including emergency and clinical hospitals. Among the injured is a child, who is being treated in a pediatric hospital.

Emergency services quickly began evacuating people from nearby buildings. People were moved to safer areas, including basements, or instructed to leave the danger zone immediately. Staff from a geophysical service were also among those evacuated.