San Francisco Bay Area Gas Explosion Damages Homes, Sends Smoke Plumes Skyward

A significant gas explosion occurred in the San Francisco Bay Area on Thursday, causing extensive damage to homes and sending smoke plumes high into the sky. The blast obliterated at least one residence, shook nearby structures, and resulted in injuries to six individuals who were subsequently hospitalized.

Details of the Incident

The explosion took place in the unincorporated community of Ashland, adjacent to Hayward, California. This area, home to approximately 160,000 residents, is located 15 miles south of Oakland. Dramatic footage captured the immediate aftermath, showing debris and smoke filling the air.

Witness Accounts

Witness Brittany Maldonado described the chaos as everything in her home shook. She compared the scene to a war video after sharing doorbell camera footage with local news outlets.

Impact and Response

• Six individuals were injured, with three suffering severe injuries and three others experiencing minor injuries.
• Alameda County Deputy Fire Chief Ryan Nishimoto reported that three structures on two lots were severely impacted.
• 75 firefighters responded to the incident but temporarily retreated due to hazards from fallen power lines.

Investigation and Cause

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) announced that it would deploy a team to investigate the explosion. Pacific Gas & Electric Co. reported being alerted around 7:35 a.m. about a construction crew damaging an underground gas line.

Gas was flowing for approximately two hours before the explosion, which occurred just ten minutes after utility workers stopped the flow at 9:25 a.m. PG&E spokesperson Tamar Sarkissian confirmed the timeline, emphasizing the challenges in isolating the damaged line.

Site Conditions

At the time of the explosion, an excavator was in use near the home that sustained most of the damage. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the workers and nearby residents initially stunned before rushing toward the scene to assist.

This incident has raised concerns about safety protocols during construction activities, particularly in residential areas. As investigations proceed, further details about the cause and impact of the explosion will be closely monitored by the community and officials.