Meteorites caught fire in Russia, 500 people were injured

An asteroid caught fire and exploded violently, dragging shocks and glare in the sky of central Russia, breaking many glass doors and injuring hundreds.

Traffic this morning in the city of Chelyabinsk, the Urals region was suddenly congested when a burning meteorite fell from the sky.

According to RIA Novosti, the Russian Interior Ministry said the incident involved about 500 people injured and at least three of these were in serious condition. Most of them were injured by broken glass pieces cut into their faces.

The meteorite pieces caught fire not only in Chelyabinsk but also in many other cities in the region. At least 6 cities were damaged in central Russia. The Ministry of Emergency for mobile communication has been temporarily interrupted.

Meteorite images caught fire in the sky of central Russia. (Photo: RIA Novosti)

"At 9:20 (0302 GMT), an object rushed down from the sky above Chelyabinsk at high speed and dragged a long trail of light behind. Within two minutes, two loud explosions rang out , " one regional officials said.

According to British scientists, this is the most traumatic meteorite incident in modern history.

According to initial information, part of the meteorite fell to a position 80km from the town of Satki, 100km to the west of the region.

"There are thousands of phone calls to report strange objects and wildfires , " he added. The schools in the area were closed, after a series of buildings' windows blew between -18 degrees Celsius.

Glass windows burst. (Photo: RIA Novosti)

Officials also confirmed that the level of radiation in the area did not change after inspecting nuclear facilities. About 20,000 emergency rescue workers were also dispatched to the scene.

Speaking at an economic forum in the Krasnoyarsk region nearby, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said the meteor shower could become a symbol of the Forum.

"I hope that this meteor shower does not have serious consequences. This incident is evidence that not only the economy, but our planet is also vulnerable," he said.