Emergency crews work at the scene of a gas leak in downtown Winnipeg on Thursday, February 7, 2019. (@MANITOBAHYDRO / TWITTER)
WINNIPEG — Several downtown office buildings were evacuated Thursday after a contractor hit an underground gas line.
The gas rupture happened at around 11:30 a.m., resulting in a high volume gas leak in the downtown area.
The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service says crews have evacuated 360 Main Street, 220 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg Square and the entire west side of Fort Street between Graham Avenue and Portage Avenue.
“At this time, gas is venting safely into the atmosphere. WFPS crews continue to monitor levels in all nearby locations,” the city said in a release. “Manitoba Hydro is working to close gas valves to the area in order to complete the necessary repairs.”
Winnipeg Transit buses have been located on Pioneer Avenue at Main Street for any evacuees requiring shelter.
UPDATE: 1:45 p.m. — The gas has been shut off and crews will begin repairing the rupture.
You can hear the gas leak blowing safely in the air. Again, please avoid the area if possible near Portage and Fort. pic.twitter.com/2TWo7SzAW9
— Manitoba Hydro (@manitobahydro) February 7, 2019
See that little piece of yellow on the bottom right? That’s where a contractor hit the gas line. Fort St. remains closed as our crews make repairs. pic.twitter.com/2pSY5WohYR
— Manitoba Hydro (@manitobahydro) February 7, 2019
