ROME - A single-decker bus exploded into flames on the popular and crowded Via del Tritone on Tuesday, causing panic and chaos.

 Three fire brigade teams tackled the dramatic blaze, while police cordoned off the area from tourists and passers-by.

 Residents in the vicinity were warned to close their windows because of the toxic fumes released by the fire. A dense black trail of smoke spread in the surrounding area and could be seen from a significant distance.

 The driver managed to save all his passengers after noticing something was wrong with his vehicle. He reportedly smelt something burning and detected a strange noise coming from the back.

 He then made all the passengers disembark at Via Cripi, while the bus quickly started to catch fire.

 A woman was reportedly injured after the fire spread to a nearby shop. No other casualties were announced.

 Police are sure that the fire was caused by a short circuit in the vehicle's electrical system.

 Burning buses have become such a common occurrence in Rome that the hashtag #flambus has started trending on Twitter.

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