Fukuoka manhole covers explode following suspected gas burner use

On the night of August 16, 2026, multiple manhole covers were blown off in the Higashitsukikuma area of Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City. The incident was reported to emergency services around 8:50 PM.

Preliminary investigations suggest the explosion may have been caused by a gas burner being used for pest control. Authorities reported that a person was seen using a gas burner to chase pests near the manholes at the time of the incident. Gas was detected in a gutter approximately 100 meters from the site.

Police believe the flame from the burner may have ignited gas that had leaked into the sewage system, causing the explosions. While the force of the blast damaged part of a nearby residential roof, no injuries were reported.