A state of emergency has been declared in the Seychelles today following an industrial explosion and heavy rain on the main island of Mahé .

Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan asked everyone but essential workers to stay home following the incident at a construction and quarrying site.

The Foreign Office (FCDO) has issued a warning to visitors stating: “If you are in the Seychelles on the island of Mahé, you are advised to refrain from leaving your accommodation until further notice”.

However, the FCDO added that flights to and from the country are still operating and visitors can travel to and from the airport.

A statement on Reuters said the explosion had caused ‘massive damage’ to the Providence Industrial zone and surrounding areas on the main island of Mahé, while flooding due to rains had resulted in ‘major destruction’.

It has also been reported the explosion caused some damage to the international airport, despite being 2.5 miles away.