14 Sep 2018 | 01:19 AM UTC
US: Gas explosions in Massachusetts injure six, force evacuations Sep. 13 /update 1
Violent explosions from gas mains injure at least six people north of Boston (Massachusetts) on September 13, forces evacuation of hundreds of people; police report 70 fires; gas company in process of shutting off services
Event
At least six people were injured in a series of natural gas explosions in northern Massachusetts in the afternoon and evening (local time) of Thursday, September 13. Local authorities are responding to over 70 explosions in Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover, approximately 40 km (25 mi) north of Boston. Between 20 and 35 homes are on fire as of 21:00 and local authorities are ordering the evacuation of hundreds of people in the area from buildings with natural gas lines. An investigation into the cause of the explosions is ongoing. The local gas company reported it was cutting pressure to the gas mains and that a shutdown would take "some time" before it is complete. There is a continued threat of further explosions in the coming hours. Traffic disruptions in the area are expected for the duration of the emergency.
Advice
Individuals in the Merrimack Valley region are advised to adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, avoid the affected areas, anticipate transportation disruptions, and monitor developments to the situation.
