Utility unsure of reason for Allentown, Penn., gas explosion

A minimum of one person is dead and another 5 missing in Allentown, Penn. On Wednesday, February 9, a gas explosion detonated in an Allentown community. Six homes were wrecked by the still-burning fire. Another 16 houses are badly ruined.

Natural gas explosion in Allentown, Penn.

It’s nevertheless unknown what caused the Allentown natural gas explosion. The Allentown fire chief said the causes are “under exploration.”. For an explosion of this size, natural gas in heavy concentration would have had to be sparked, which could occur if a gas stove were left on or a natural gas leak were undiscovered for a long time period. The blast was really strong. It was so strong that computer monitors were sent to houses which were 6 to eight houses away.

Over 600 people evacuated because of explosion

After the Allentown, PA, natural gas explosion, more than six-hundred residents were evacuated out of their homes. At least six homes were completely burned down. This was because the explosion started a fire. Another sixteen houses were damaged. Nearby apartment complexes are also being inspected before residents are allowed back into their houses. Five people are nevertheless missing from the explosion and fire. At least one is already confirmed dead as well.

Gas main had passed examination

The "routine leak inspection" at the gas main neat the gas explosion near Allentown, Penn., had been passed. A statement from the UGI Utilities, Inc., representative made this clear. There is a 12-inch cast iron natural gas main that runs under a large portion of the city that is checked for leaks on a regular basis. It was also explained that there weren't any leaks in history under the houses that exploded while gas odors were not complained about. The business is uncertain what could have brought on the gas explosion. Thursday morning, 5 hours were needed by the crew to cut through concrete and seal the gas to stop the fire from both sides.

Information from

MSNBC

msnbc.msn.com/id/41504665

Salon

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