In a sudden and alarming event, the Interstate 5 (I-5) Freeway near Castaic, California, was closed on Saturday due to a gas line explosion that led authorities to issue a shelter-in-place order.
The dramatic incident occurred at approximately 4:20 p.m. Pacific Time, when a 34-inch gas transmission line burst near Ridge Route Road and Pine Crest Place. Los Angeles County Fire Department officials later confirmed that the line was operating under a pressure of 600 psi. As of now, the cause of the explosion is still under investigation, according to reports from KTLA 5.
Residents in the vicinity described the explosion as deafening, likening it to the sound of a jet engine, and reported that the force was strong enough to cause their homes to tremble. Those living in nearby Granada Hills, Porter Ranch, and Sylmar reported a noticeable gas odor permeating the air around their neighborhoods.
In response, Los Angeles County Fire officials advised, “Seek shelter inside. Close all doors, windows, and vents. Shut off HVAC systems.”
The incident quickly captured attention online, with videos from the scene spreading rapidly across social media platforms.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass assured the public through a statement that officials are closely monitoring the situation. She urged residents to remain calm, noting that while the scent of gas might be prevalent due to the leak’s proximity, there is no immediate threat to their safety.
Video of the scene immediately went viral on social media:
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) said in a statement that officials are monitoring the situation. She also warned residents that although they may smell gas in the air from the leak’s epicenter, they are in no immediate danger.
“We are closely monitoring a gas leak which occurred in Castaic, Los Angeles County. Some Angelenos may smell odor of natural gas in the air. LAFD and L.A. County report that this is not harmful and poses no immediate danger to City residents,” she said.
“Our LAFD Hazardous Materials personnel are monitoring air quality in three key locations. The City is coordinating with L.A. County to anticipate any potential impacts and ensure the safety of our residents,” she added.
As of this writing, traffic is backed up on 5 freeway due to the road closures.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) has been notified of the situation and has reportedly been communicating with the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.
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