Estimated read time: Less than a minute
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
(Undated-AP) -- A massive explosion has rocked central Baghdad. Low-flying aircraft were heard overhead before the blast.
The bombing resonated through the main part of the city, rattling buildings and the Palestine Hotel where many journalists are staying.
The bombing comes as U-S forces bolted into Baghdad today for the first time since the war started last month.
Iraqi army tanks are now posted at some major intersections and armored personnel carriers are roaming the streets. Some civilians are armed as well.
As U-S forces trucked into the city, thousands of Iraqis bolted the other direction.
Long lines snaked around filling stations as Iraqis tried to evacuate Baghdad.
Iraqis also flocked to markets to grab batteries and flashlights. The city plunged into darkness and has been without power since Thursday.
Cars of armed men were also seen streaking across the city.
(Copyright 2003 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)