Thousands urgently evacuated from busy buildings after ‘gas leak’ with warning to avoid area
THOUSANDS have been urgently evacuated from busy buildings following a suspected gas leak.
Emergency services rushed to Southwark Street, central London, where a large cordon is in place since around 2pm.
London Fire BrigadeA large cordon is in place[/caption]
Around 2,000 people have been evacuated from “several buildings” with residents and workers urged to avoid the area.
Gas engineers are currently at the scene working to make the area safe.
A spokesman for London Fire Brigade said: “Firefighters are assisting at the scene of a gas leak on Southwark Street in Southwark this afternoon.
“Gas engineers are currently on scene assessing the incident. They are working in the roadway as they attempt to isolate the leak and make the affected area safe.
“Around 2,000 people have been evacuated from surrounding buildings as a precaution. A significant number of those evacuated have now left the area.
“Those remaining are currently being assisted and looked after by firefighters, other multi-agency service colleagues and staff from a nearby hotel. There have been no reports of any injuries at this time.
A statement adds: “A cordon remains in place and Southwark Street is currently closed between the junctions of Great Suffolk Street and Bear Street, towards the direction of Blackfriars Road.
“Traffic is heavily disrupted and people are advised to avoid the area whilst the incident is ongoing.”
“The Brigade was called at 2.03pm. Three fire engines remain at the scene.”
The evacuation is causing heavy traffic issues in the area, with local bus routes having been diverted.
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