02 Aug 2019 | 09:30 PM UTC
Mexico: Gas leak forces evacuation of 2000 people north of Mexico City August 2
Gas leak caused by illegal pipeline tap forces evacuation of 2000 people north of Mexico City August 2; further illegal tapping possible in the area over the near term
Event
An illegal pipeline tap has reportedly caused a gas leak in the State of Mexico, prompting authorities to evacuate 2000 people from a rural area north of Mexico City on Friday, August 2. The flow of liquified petroleum (LP) gas into the affected pipeline has been halted ahead of work to repair the pipeline. A highway adjacent to the incident site has been closed to traffic and train service has been canceled on a nearby line.
Lingering transportation disruptions are to be expected in the area over the coming hours and days. Further illegal pipeline tapping is possible in the area over the near term.
Advice
Individuals in the State of Mexico are advised to monitor developments, avoid the affected area, prepare for lingering transportation disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders).
