September 1st 2024.
A man was left with severe burns and critical injuries after a suspected gas explosion rocked a house in Wheatley Drive, Longridge this morning. The explosion was described as a "gut-wrenching bang" and caused significant damage to the property, leaving an entire side of the house exposed. Neighbors reported feeling their homes shake and were evacuated as a safety precaution. The man was able to escape before the police arrived, but was then taken to the hospital along with two others who sustained minor injuries.
The pictures of the aftermath show the shocking scene of the exposed interior, with furniture and bedding hanging out of the now-missing side of the house. The roof was also partially blown off by the explosion. Eight fire engines and specialist rescue teams responded to the scene, but the scale of the response has since been reduced. However, some road closures are still in place and people are advised to avoid the area.
The cause and circumstances of the explosion are currently under investigation by the police. The Lancashire Fire & Rescue service also released a statement about the incident, stating that they received a call at 10:31 am and immediately dispatched eight fire engines and other specialized units to the scene. They also confirmed that one person was taken to the hospital by paramedics and that they will likely remain on the scene for some time. They also urged people to not fly their own drones in the area as it could interfere with their emergency response.
As of this afternoon, the fire service has downgraded their response to three pumps and are still working alongside Urban Search and Rescue colleagues. However, the road closures are expected to remain in place for several hours. The fire service is also using a drone to assist with their operations and have asked the public to not fly their own drones in the area. The situation is still ongoing and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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