More than eight dead in Johannesburg tanker explosion

A gas tanker has exploded at Boksburg, East of South Africa's capital Johannesburg, killing more than eight people.

The incident happened on Saturday, December 24, mid-morning and has left scores injured and nearby buildings damaged.

This is according to emergency services and disaster management teams at the scene.

Reuters reported that the blast broke the roof of the emergency department at the Tambo Memorial Hospital, and destroyed two houses and several cars.

Preliminary investigations have disclosed that the tanker was ferrying Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) according to the national broadcaster, South African Broadcasting Company (SABC).

SABC reports that the tanker caught fire while under a low bridge and killed nine although the death toll is expected to rise.

However, emergency services spokesperson William Ntladi said investigations were ongoing.

SABC live coverage also reveals that the driver has been taken for medical attention, adding that most victims are severely injured.

"We are expecting a rise in the fatalities because we have information that most victims sustained severe injuries," Patricia Visagie, SABC reporter says.

Authorities are yet to give an official communication regarding the incident.