Utility workers injured, home damaged and cars destroyed after a gas line explosion and fire in Northern Virginia Wednesday, officials say.
Three workers were taken to hospital with burns and injuries that were not considered life-threatening, the Fairfax County Fire Department said.
Aerial footage from Chopper4 shows tall orange flames leaping into the air and crews working for hours trying to control the fire.
Pastor Don Jamison heard the explosion just outside a window of his house.
“I heard the explosion and went to the window and saw that the fire was rising, and within seconds several explosions went off the fuel tanks and equipment,” he said.
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Washington Gas workers were carrying out planned repairs when the blast occurred without warning at block 8100 of Hooes Road, in the Springfield area, the fire department said. The explosion shocked the neighborhood and an emergency call was placed at about 12:30 PM
The workers were taken to hospitals, residents were evacuated from their homes, and the crew spent hours trying to turn off the gas and keep the flames from jumping at homes.
Jamison opened his nearby church, Sydenstricker United Methodist Church, to any neighbors who needed a place to stay warm.
Drivers were asked to avoid the area.
Finally the fire was out and the gas was shut off before 4:00 pm
The cause of the explosion is under investigation.
Stay with NBC Washington for more details on this evolving story.