Lightning Strikes Gas Line Results In 60 Homes Being Evacuated

(OXFORD COUNTY, ON) – On Sunday, August 18, 2019, at approximately 3:03 a.m., the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Oxford County Detachment, Tillsonburg Fire Department and Oxford County EMS responded to a report of a lightning strike that occurred at a Kara Lane, Tillsonburg address.

It was determined that lightning had struck and severed a gas line releasing a large quantity of natural gas into the several homes along with the underground sewer lines. As a result of the high concentration of gas, approximately 60 homes in the area have been evacuated for public safety.

All residents have been moved to the Tillsonburg Community Centre located as 45 Hardy Avenue in Tillsonburg.

The following roadways have been closed;

Francis Street at Tillson Avenue,

Kara Lane at Mary Street

Peach Street at Magnolia Drive.

Union Gas has been notified and it is anticipated that gas in the area will off to various residences for approximately 12 hours.

Updated information will be provided once it becomes available.

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