CNN reports that at least 14 people are dead, six people are missing, and 750 have been injured following a massive explosion at the port of Bandar Abbas in southwestern Iran. While no cause has yet been given for the explosion, which sent a massive plume of thick smoke into the air, the government has said it was likely connected to the chemicals being stored in that corner of the port. Firefighters are continuing to battle the blaze in incredibly windy conditions, and Iranian authorities have declared a state of emergency in the city to protect citizens, particularly given the “significant rise in air pollution” resulting from the blast. Citizens are advised to stay indoors, avoid outdoor activities, and keep all windows closed. Fatemeh Mohajerani, a spokesperson for Iran’s government, said it may be a while before an official determination can be made about the cause of the explosion. “Until the fire is extinguished, it’s hard to ascertain the cause,” she said.
