Los Angeles County gas leak: Major natural gas line rupture in Castaic prompts shelter-in-place, videos surface

Residents have reported a strong gas smell as far away as Granada Hills, Santa Clarita, Stevenson Ranch, and Valencia.

A major natural gas line leak in Castaic, California, has prompted a shelter-in-place order. All lanes of the 5 Freeway in the area are currently closed.

Crews are responding to a gas line leak in Castaic, California.(Representational Image/ AFP)

The leak was first reported around 4:20 p.m. on Saturday, coming from a 36-inch underground main gas line just east of the southbound lanes near the intersection of Ridge Route Road and Pine Crest Place.

Authorities issued the shelter-in-place for the surrounding neighborhoods, including Charley Canyon, Hillcrest, and Wayside, according to ABC 7.

So far, there have been no reports of explosions or injuries. Residents have reported a strong gas smell as far away as Granada Hills, Santa Clarita, Stevenson Ranch, and Valencia.

The Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed that, despite reports of gas odors, there is no immediate threat to the city of Los Angeles.

Videos

Videos shared on social media from the Santa Clarita Valley show high-pressure gas spewing into the air from the line.

Road closures

The California Highway Patrol has closed all northbound and southbound lanes of the 5 Freeway at Lake Hughes Road.

CHP Southern Division posted on X, "NB I-5: All lanes will be closed and all traffic will be diverted to SR-126. SB I-5: All lanes will be closed and all traffic will be diverted to SR-138. These closures will remain in effect until further notice due to safety hazard."

Where is Castaic located?

Castaic is an unincorporated community in Northern Los Angeles County, California. It is located about 38 miles northwest of downtown LA, near the I-5 Freeway. The community is home to Castaic Lake, a significant water recreation area and an important part of the State Water Project.