Explosion and toxic cloud over Rome: what to do? ChatGPT's advice in case of emergency

A huge explosion has rocked the Prenestino neighborhood in Rome: a gas and gasoline distributor went up in flames, generating a dense cloud of toxic smoke visible throughout the capital. At least 40 people were injured , buildings were damaged, and the air was unbreathable in several areas.

Rome, 8:18 in the morning. A very violent explosion has shocked the Capital: it was caused by a fire that broke out in a LPG and petrol station in via dei Gordiani, in the Pigneto area. The roar, heard in many neighborhoods from North to South, generated a cloud of toxic smoke visible for kilometers away and triggered panic among residents. Authorities speak of dozens of injured , damaged buildings and a still active risk for the surrounding area.

“ A tremendous roar ,” is how the citizens of Pigneto, a neighborhood known for its nightlife, described the explosion that shook windows and buildings throughout Rome, from Nuovo Salario to Eur.

The explosion, according to some witnesses, was preceded by a strong smell of gas and a column of black smoke. From the Talenti area, some residents say:

“ Around 8am you could already see the smoke, then the explosion, then a real mushroom cloud that rose into the sky .”

In via dei Gordiani, at number 32, near Villa De Sanctis , the air has become unbreathable. The fumes are moving south, driven by the wind, fueling concerns about the possible presence of LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) or other dangerous agents in the atmosphere.

The entire area was quickly evacuated. Some witnesses speak of an accident during refueling . Others hypothesize that the extreme heat wave of recent days may have influenced the dangerousness of the stored material. A spark, in the presence of gas and gasoline, can easily turn into a tragedy.

The toll, still provisional, speaks of over 40 injured , some in serious conditions with extensive burns . Numerous buildings were damaged.

Ambulances from all over Rome have been mobilized, and the city's emergency rooms are on alert. The Civil Protection has urged citizens to keep their windows closed , especially in areas exposed to the toxic cloud.

Knowing how to behave in cases like this can really make a difference. For this reason, we asked ChatGPT – the well-known artificial intelligence assistant – what actions to take in the event of an explosion at a gas station near your home . Of course, it is always essential to follow the instructions of the official authorities , but here are some useful guidelines to keep in mind :

• Only leave your home if it is safe to do so , and if the fire directly threatens the building.
• Move against the wind to avoid inhaling smoke or harmful gases.
• Avoid using your car: you could get stuck or end up in a risk area.

• Close all windows, doors and shutters immediately .
• Turn off the gas and electricity , if you can do so safely.
• Plug any cracks with wet towels to limit smoke entry.

• Do not approach the scene of the accident to film or take pictures.
• Do not use open flames, lighters or devices that can create sparks.
• Do not open windows if you smell gas or burning .

• Keep a radio, TV or smartphone on, and follow updates from Civil Protection , Fire Brigade or Municipal Police .