This is the moment a tanker loaded with petrol explodes in a massive fireball at a service station, leaving 15 people injured, two critically.

Footage shows the moment the tanker explodes at the petrol station on the SP-310 motorway in the Brazilian city of Rio Claro on the night of Wednesday, 30th June.

According to local law enforcement, the lorry driver and the attendant refuelling the vehicle were seriously injured in the explosion with 13 others suffering minor injuries.

According to the local public safety bureau, eight ambulances arrived on the scene following the blast, and the victims were taken to accident and emergency.

The two worst injured underwent surgery. According to the hospital, they are both currently recovering in intensive care and are doing well. Their identities have not been divulged.

Other victims had to be treated for smoke inhalation and second- and third-degree burns.

The blast caused damage to the petrol station, its restaurant and nearby houses and parked vehicles. Part of the motorway had to be closed off, causing tailbacks.

The force of the blast smashed the windows of several buildings in a radius extending 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) from the epicentre, and a footbridge in front of the station was also damaged.

Residents report seeing thick smoke that spread throughout the city accompanied by a strong smell.

It is unclear what exactly triggered the explosion or if a criminal investigation has been launched.