Frantic hunt for survivors after Waco plant blast

Rescue workers searched the smouldering ruins of a fertiliser plant for survivors of a monstrous explosion that levelled homes and businesses in every direction across the Texas prairie. As many as 15 people were feared dead and more than 160 others injured.

Daybreak revealed a breathtaking band of destruction extending outward from the West Fertiliser Co in this small farming community about 32km north of Waco.

The thunderous blast was so powerful it shook the ground with the strength of a small earthquake and could be heard dozens of miles away.