Emergency evacuations are underway in the north Silverthorne area of Summit County following a major gas leak caused by a damaged high-pressure gas line.
Residents and visitors near North Golden Eagle and North Chipmunk Lanes have been ordered to evacuate immediately. Local authorities are urging people to avoid the area, and travelers are being asked to stay clear of the evacuation zone.
The leak began around 3:45 p.m. on Tuesday when an Xfinity contractor accidentally struck a high-pressure gas main while boring underground. The incident occurred near the intersection of N Chipmunk Lane and N Golden Eagle Lane, according to a statement from the Town of Silverthorne’s official Facebook page.
Summit Fire & EMS responded quickly and is currently managing the situation. Xcel Energy, which owns the gas line, has been notified and is working to address the leak.
As a safety measure, residents were advised through an emergency alert not to operate lights or electronic devices in the affected area. Authorities warned that even minor sparks could ignite the gas. People are also being told not to use cell phones, start engines, or light matches near the scene.
The Silverthorne Recreation Center has been set up as a temporary evacuation site for displaced individuals.
In a critical safety message, Colorado Natural Gas advised residents to avoid any vapor clouds and to evacuate immediately if they smell gas. They stressed the importance of avoiding any actions that could create sparks.
Officials also asked parents not to pick up their children from school, as school staff have enacted emergency protocols to keep students safe.
Emergency crews continue to monitor the situation as they work to contain the leak and ensure public safety.
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