A significant gas leak near the square in Hanover, Pa., has triggered an emergency evacuation, according to Hanover Fire & Rescue. The incident, which began at approximately 3:13 p.m., prompted a swift response from emergency services and utility companies.

Ted Czech, public information officer for the York County Office of Emergency Management, confirmed that the initial call was affiliated with 18 Baltimore Street. The situation rapidly evolved, leading to an expansion of the evacuation zone.

evacuation Zone Expands

The evacuation area now encompasses several key streets in Hanover, including Baltimore Street, Broadway, York Street, and East Walnut Street. Authorities have evacuated 30 apartments in the affected zone, which comprises a mix of residential and commercial properties.

Fire Chief Details Initial Response

Chief Tony Clousher provided details about the initial response to the gas leak: They were dispatched for an outside gas leak on Exchange place, an alleyway off of Baltimore Street. They arrived and found black smoke coming from the pavement.

The presence of black smoke emanating from the pavement suggested a potentially serious situation, prompting further examination and precautionary measures.

Underground Fire Suspected

Chief Clousher elaborated on the suspected cause of the gas leak: The assumption is there is an underground fire that burned through a gas line underground. In response, Met-Ed, the local electric utility, temporarily shut down power to the area. While power has been largely restored, the focus remains on containing the gas leak.

Columbia Gas Efforts to Stop the Leak

Columbia Gas is actively working to address the gas leak. According to Chief Clousher, Columbia Gas is digging to an adjacent gas line to try to pinch it off and see if that stops the leak. Though, if this approach proves unsuccessful, the situation could extend for several hours.

As of the latest reports,no injuries have been reported. Evacuees have primarily sought accommodations outside of the borough office, with the evacuation including the McAllister hotel.

Road Closures and Public Response

Emergency responders have implemented additional road closures to manage the situation. Baltimore Street at Middle Street and West Walnut at Ruth avenue are currently closed to traffic. A strong odor of gas permeates downtown hanover,with evacuees covering their faces as they leave the area.

Authorities believe there is an electrical fire underground that is next to a gas line, according to Czech. Met-Ed reports that power is out to 642 customers in the area, according to its outage map.

Utility Companies Respond

Both Met-Ed and Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania have dispatched personnel to the scene. Lee Gierczynski, a spokesperson for Columbia Gas, stated that a Columbia Gas technician is on site and working to assess the situation. Seven to eight buildings have been evacuated as a safety precaution.

Evacuees are being directed to the borough building at 33 Frederick Street. Among the officials present are the Hanover Borough manager, an engineer, the Emergency Management Agency director, and the chief code enforcement officer.

The public is strongly advised to avoid the area until the situation is resolved.