A powerful explosion rocked a Japan Self-Defense Forces (SDF) facility within the US Kadena Air Base in Okinawa on Monday, injuring four people, according to Japan’s Ministry of Defense.

The incident, which occurred at the sprawling military installation in southern Japan, has prompted a swift response from emergency services and military personnel.

The blast, reported within the SDF premises, may have originated at a temporary storage site for unexploded ordnance, Japan’s public broadcaster NHK reported, citing unnamed defense ministry sources. Authorities have yet to confirm the exact cause of the explosion, and an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances and assess potential risks.

None of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening, officials stated, though the identities of those affected have not been disclosed. Local media, including Jiji Press, corroborated the injury toll and emphasized that there is currently no risk to life.

Kadena Air Base, the largest US military installation in the Asia-Pacific, serves as a critical hub for both American and Japanese military operations. The incident has raised concerns about safety protocols at the strategically vital site.

Officials are expected to provide further updates as the investigation progresses. (ILKHA)