A powerful explosion ripped through an apartment in the Beqir Dardha neighborhood of Elbasan, central Albania, on Wednesday afternoon, killing an 82-year-old woman and leaving a residential building severely damaged.

The blast was so powerful that it caused the collapse of apartment walls and parts of the building's staircases, leaving the entire structure severely damaged and uninhabitable.

According to the latest reports, the 82-year-old woman, who lived in a neighboring apartment, lost her life as a result of the explosion.

One person remains missing, while 10 others suffered from smoke inhalation and received medical treatment at the hospital. Their condition is not considered life-threatening.

The explosion caused extensive structural damage, effectively destroying the apartment building and forcing residents out of their homes.

Eyewitnesses have described scenes of terror as the powerful blast shook the neighborhood.

Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the explosion.