14 Sep 2018 | 05:22 AM UTC
US: Thousands remain displaced after Massachusetts gas explosions Sep. 14 /update 2
Authorities are permitting limited repopulation of homes in Andover on September 14 following series of gas explosions that killed one and injured 12
Event
Local authorities in northern Massachusetts announced limited lifting of mandatory evacuation orders in the early morning of Friday, September 14. Following a series of natural gas explosions on Thursday, September 14, emergency personnel are allowing some residents to return to their homes after an inspection by technicians as of 00:30 (local time). The explosions killed one person and injured 12 others in Andover, North Andover, and Lawrence, approximately 40 km (25 mi) north of Boston. An estimated 8000 people were displaced by the incidents. All fires were extinguished by 18:45 on Thursday.
Context
A series of explosions on Thursday afternoon destroyed dozens of homes in Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover in northern Massachusetts. Authorities suspect they were caused by an over-pressurized gas line, though an investigation is ongoing.
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.
