Two loud explosions were heard in York tonight (Monday, May 2), causing a wave of concern.
The loud bangs were heard across Yorkshire, in particular in Leeds, York and North Yorkshire. People took to social media to report the noise and shockwaves big enough to rattle windows.
North Yorkshire Police were inundated with calls from anxious members of the public.
2 massive explosions heard somewhere near York!! Huge double explosion!
— Jethro Elvin (@jethroelvin) May 2, 2016
What was that massive explosion round York I've just heard it about five minutes ago!
— Wayne Fawcett (@waynefawcett) May 2, 2016
Can anyone shed any light on the two huge bangs just heard in York? #York #explosion
— Dave (@bobzy71) May 2, 2016
But it seems some RAF manoeuvres may be to blame.
The police issued this statement:
Police are aware of the reports of activity, which happened around half an hour ago, and are fully investigating, however it is believed it was due to a sonic boom by two RAF jets.
Police believe there is no danger posed to the public.
The unofficial Twitter feed from Lincolnshire air base RAF Coningsby the sonic booms were caused by RAF Typhoons, apparently scrambled to escort an airliner in to Newcastle Airport after it went off course.
Various reports of Sonic Booms coming in from the Doncaster/Leeds areas as the QRA Typhoons went over.
— RAF Coningsby Info (@EGXCinfo) May 2, 2016
It is normal for Quick Reaction Alert Typhoons to be given Authority to break the sound barrier over land when scrambled & to be heard!!!
— RAF Coningsby Info (@EGXCinfo) May 2, 2016
QRA: When given authority to break the sound barrier on a QRA it is usual for it to be heard across MULTIPLE COUNTIES of the UK.
— RAF Coningsby Info (@EGXCinfo) May 2, 2016
According to information QRA Typhoons escorted a civilian airliner into Newcastle Airport after it went off course.
— RAF Coningsby Info (@EGXCinfo) May 2, 2016
Panic over!