An explosion in a van in Joroinen, Finland killed two people on Saturday. The vehicle remained more intact than a similar explosion that occurred in Helsinki's Mellunkylä district last October.
Safety expert Petri Pakkanen said the Joroinen blast appeared less powerful. Photos show pressure released through the front windshield area. The van remained recognizable as a vehicle.
Pakkanen suggested gas leakage or evaporated petrol as possible causes. He based his assessment on images from both explosion sites.
The Mellunkylä explosion completely destroyed a van and injured two people. That incident involved gas cylinders, likely acetylene.
In Joroinen, pressure caused substantial damage despite the smaller explosion. Two people died while Mellunkylä had only injuries.
Pakkanen explained petrol vapor could form if transport containers leaked. Improper containers might also cause dangerous vapor buildup.
Both explosions required an ignition source. Pakkanen pointed to fuel-powered heaters common in vans. These heaters can draw in vapor or gas through their intake.
Electrical shorts, sparks, or heater flames could ignite the vapor. Nothing ignites spontaneously, Pakkanen noted.
He emphasized his analysis relies on educated guesses from published photos. The expert called for improved dangerous goods transport safety.
Two similar explosions in a short time demand attention, Pakkanen said. He suggested authorities might need increased oversight of transport safety.
The consecutive van explosions reveal concerning safety gaps in vehicle transport practices. While investigations continue, the pattern suggests systemic issues requiring immediate address.