Natural Gas Explosion Engulfs Homes, Leaves 3 Dead

A ruptured gas line in the San Francisco suburb of San Bruno exploded Thursday night, engulfing dozens of homes in a neighborhood. The explosion occurred at 6:15 p.m. At least 53 homes have been severely damaged and another 120 have suffered minor damages.

About 100 residents have fled the neighborhood. Authorities say three people have been confirmed dead. The death toll is expected to rise. Local hospitals reported 28 people were treated for injuries and burns sustained in the fire.

The gas transmission line belongs to Pacific Gas and Electric. Spokesman Blair Jones says the cause of the rupture is under investigation. “Our focus right now is making the area safe,” says Jones.

Firefighters are working to contain the blaze, which is being fueled by gas pipes near homes and windy weather. The fire department is trucking water in because the explosion affected a water main, causing water pressure in the area to be low.

California Lt. Governor Abel Maldonado declared a state of emergency in San Mateo County. “It looks like a bomb went off. I saw debris everywhere. It was a huge explosion. I am shocked. This is a horrible tragedy that hit San Bruno,” Maldonado said.

The San Francisco Red Cross said two shelters have been set up for residents of the neighborhood. The neighborhood is located about two miles west of San Francisco International Airport. Smoke from the blaze is causing flight delays.

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