Emergency crews rushed out yesterday to a reported natural gas leak at 5th Street and Pacific Avenue in Alameda, triggering evacuations and a shelter-in-place order for surrounding blocks. Island High School students were among those moved out of the area while first responders worked to secure the scene.
According to ABC7, fire officials were on scene and crews were evacuating nearby buildings, and the Alameda Unified School District confirmed Island High students were included in the precautions. The outlet also reported the leak may have been caused by a third party construction crew and that PG&E had been notified and was on the way.
School and neighborhood impact
Island High, which lists its campus at 500 Pacific Ave., was identified as one of the affected locations, and school staff moved students to safety while crews set up a perimeter. Traffic in the immediate area was diverted as firefighters and utility workers monitored gas levels and ventilated nearby buildings.
Cause and on scene response
Officials told ABC7 the leak may have stemmed from work by a third party construction crew, although investigators had not yet confirmed a final cause. PG&E crews were reported headed to the scene to isolate the line while Alameda Fire personnel held the area and coordinated evacuations.
Official safety guidance
PG&E advises anyone who smells gas to leave the area immediately, avoid using electronics or starting vehicles near the leak, and call 911 and the utility from a safe distance. More safety tips are available from PG&E. The Alameda Fire Department notes it coordinates evacuations, shelter notices and hazardous materials responses for the city.
This remains a developing story. Crews were still on scene late Wednesday as officials worked to determine when streets will reopen and when students and residents can safely return. We will update with statements from the city, the school district and PG&E as they are released.
