The first explosion set off a chain of blasts in Rome and was so loud and violent that it struck nearby buildings "like an earthquake."

At least 45 people were injured by two accidental explosions at a Rome gas station at 8 a.m. local time on Friday.

The explosion was heard across the Italian capital shortly after 8 a.m. local time and sent a huge cloud of dark smoke and fire that was visible from across the city.