Massive explosion at Texas fertilizer plant

Warning: massive, disturbing explosion at :30 second mark

This is a developing story, and sadly, not likely to get better any time soon:

Scores of people were injured and numerous buildings were damaged in the large explosion at a fertilizer plant near Waco, Texas, according to local authorities.

The Waco Department of Public Safety told NBC 5 of Dallas that many of the injuries were severe in the blast, which occurred at about 7:50 p.m. (8:50 p.m. ET) at the West Fertilizer plant in the small town of West, about 20 miles north of Waco. [...]

NBC 5 reported that some 200 people were injured in the explosion, with 40 of those in critical condition at various hospitals. At least 75 to 100 homes were severely damaged or destroyed, the station reported, citing local officials. [...]

Muska didn't give any exact numbers on how many people might have been killed, but noted, "there’s a lot of people that I’m sure are not going to be here tomorrow ... it is a cut across our hearts."

For more discussion, see Eternal Hope's diary.

Wed Apr 17, 2013 at 11:22 PM PT: Via the Los Angeles Times:

At least three people were reported dead and about six firefighters were missing Wednesday night as rescuers continued to battle intense flames after a massive explosion at a fertilizer plant near Waco, officials told reporters at the scene. [...]

He said at least 100 people had been injured but he had no information to share about the number killed.

Wed Apr 17, 2013 at 11:39 PM PT:

KTVT in DFW says the #westexplosion registered as 2.1 earthquake. #mygod

— @rjrusak via Echofon