Thousands of individuals were urgently evacuated from buildings in central London on Wednesday due to a reported gas leak. The incident occurred on Southwark
Street, near the junction with Great Suffolk Street, prompting a significant emergency response.
The London Fire Brigade is on-site, working alongside gas engineers to locate and isolate the source of the leak. Approximately 2,000 people were evacuated from several buildings as a precautionary measure. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported.
The evacuated individuals include many office workers and guests from a nearby hotel. These evacuees are being assisted by hotel staff and emergency personnel.
The gas leak has also caused substantial traffic disruptions in the area. Authorities are advising residents and workers to avoid Southwark Street and the surrounding streets, as a large cordon has been established to ensure public safety.
A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade provided further details: "Firefighters are assisting at the scene of a gas leak on Southwark Street in Southwark this afternoon (June 5). Gas engineers are currently on-site assessing the incident. They are working in the roadway to isolate the leak and make the affected area safe. Around 2,000 people have been evacuated from surrounding buildings as a precaution."
The spokesperson added, "A significant number of those evacuated have now left the area. Those remaining are currently being assisted and looked after by firefighters, other multi-agency service colleagues, and staff from a nearby hotel. There have been no reports of any injuries at this time."
Road closures are in effect on Southwark Street between the junctions of Great Suffolk Street and Bear Street, leading towards Blackfriars Road. The heavy traffic disruption is expected to continue until the situation is resolved, and the public is advised to steer clear of the area.
The London Fire Brigade was alerted to the gas leak at 2:03 PM. Three fire engines are currently on the scene, working diligently to manage the situation. The Metropolitan Police are assisting with road closures and ensuring the safety of the evacuated areas.
As authorities work to resolve the gas leak, they are prioritizing the safety of both the evacuated individuals and the wider public. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops. Photo by Chris Sampson, Wikimedia commons.