A violent explosion rocked the Southern Bypass near Wilson Airport on Saturday, January 24, after a fuel tanker collided with another truck, sparking a large fire that shut down traffic in both directions.
Flames engulfed the tanker, which came to a halt partly on the left side of the dual carriageway and partially on Swaminarayan Street beneath the bypass tunnel, sending thick black smoke into the air and reducing visibility.
Emergency teams from the Kenya Airports Authority, alongside police and the Kenya Red Cross, rushed to the scene to tackle the fire and control the traffic chaos. Access to the area has been restricted to allow first responders to operate safely, and motorists have been directed to alternative routes.
"The highway has been temporarily closed. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes," confirmed the Kenya Red Cross. Authorities are coordinating traffic management measures around the incident to prevent further disruption.
It has been confirmed that one of the drivers involved died in the accident. Officials have not disclosed the identity of the deceased or given updates on the condition of others who were caught up in the crash.
Accidents involving fuel and other hazardous cargo trucks are common in Kenya, usually resulting from collisions, vehicle rollovers, or technical failures. These incidents often lead to fires or explosions, disrupt transport, and damage property along the affected roads.
Past cases illustrate the danger of such accidents. In December 2025, a fuel tanker collision on the Mtito Andei-Voi highway resulted in a fire that blocked traffic for hours. In Nakuru, multiple fuel trucks caught fire at night in the Barnabas area, forcing emergency teams to contain the blaze. In February 2024, a liquefied petroleum gas truck exploded in Embakasi, affecting nearby homes and businesses.
Other historical incidents include a fuel truck in Siaya County that overturned and later caught fire, causing casualties, and tanker rollovers in Naivasha and Molo, which triggered large fires and loss of life.
Authorities continue to monitor and manage the scene while urging drivers to follow alternate routes until the highway is fully reopened.
