A huge fireball burst from the back of a lorry loaded with lithium batteries, sending firefighters scrambling for safety in a dramatic incident caught on camera.
Shocking footage shows emergency crews tackling a smoking container trailer when an explosion suddenly blows open the rear doors.
A massive ball of flames then erupts towards firefighters standing just metres away, forcing them to retreat as thick black smoke billows into the air.
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The incident happened at around 1pm on Monday (8 June) after the driver noticed smoke pouring from the container and pulled over before calling emergency services, as reported by Need To Know.
Several firefighters wearing protective gear can be seen directing water at the trailer as smoke leaks from gaps in the container.
Moments later, the doors suddenly fly open and a roaring fireball shoots out, accompanied by a loud bang.
An ambulance waiting nearby immediately activated its siren, while a passing lorry was forced to brake sharply as the explosion unfolded.
Despite the dramatic scenes, no injuries were reported and firefighters eventually brought the blaze under control.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.
The cargo was understood to consist of lithium batteries, which can pose particular challenges for firefighters because damaged cells can enter a chain reaction known as thermal runaway, producing intense heat, flames and explosive flare-ups.
The incident took place in the Tsing Yi district of Hong Kong, near a logistics centre where the container was reportedly heading to make a delivery.
Video of the explosion quickly spread online, with viewers stunned by how close firefighters were to the blast when the fireball erupted.
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