Interstate 5 (I-5) near Castaic, California, was immediately closed Saturday after a gas pipeline explosion prompted a stay-at-home order.
A 34-inch natural gas pipeline exploded near Ridge Route Road and Pine Crest Place on Saturday around 4:20 pm PT. Los Angeles County fire officials later reported that the line was “at 600 pounds per square inch of pressure.” According to media reports, the exact cause of the explosion is still unknown. KTLA 5.
A SigAlert has been issued for Highway 5 in both directions at Lake Hughes Road. All northbound traffic is rerouted onto SR-126 and all southbound traffic is rerouted onto SR-138.
The surrounding area was ordered to stay put. Map of affected areas can be found here.
Residents of the area told reporters that the sound was like a jet engine, the force of which was so powerful that they could feel their houses shaking. Residents in nearby Granada Hills, Porter Ranch and Sylmar reported smelling gas in the air where they lived.
“Seek shelter inside,” Los Angeles County fire officials said. “Close all doors, windows and vents. Turn off the HVAC systems.”
Video from the scene immediately spread across social networks:
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) said in a statement that officials were monitoring the situation. She also warned residents that while they may smell gas in the air from the epicenter of the leak, they are not in immediate danger.
“We are closely monitoring gas leak that occurred in Castaic, Los Angeles County. Some Los Angeles residents may smell natural gas in the air. Los Angeles and Los Angeles County report that this does not pose any harm 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 Los Angeles County to anticipate any potential impacts and ensure the safety of our residents,” she added.
As of this writing, traffic on Highway 5 is backlogged due to road closures.
California Governor Gavin Newsom (D) was notified of the situation and reportedly contacted the Governor's Office of Emergency Management.
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