St Jude's Storm: Fire Crews Tackle Gas Explosion In Hounslow

Gas Explosion In Hounslow As Tree Crushes Three Homes

A fallen tree caused a devastating gas explosion in west London, crushing three homes, according fire services.

Six fire engines and more than 30 firefighters are dealing with the gas explosion on Bath Road, Hounslow, at approximately 7.35am on Monday.

Twelve people have been evacuated from surrounding properties, and firefighters have rescued a dog trapped inside the building.

Three people managed to free themselves from the collapsed buildings, with one elderly woman taken to hospital.

Station Manager Matt Burrows, who is at the scene, said: “When I arrived on the scene I was greeted by a scene of utter devastation and three houses had been completely destroyed.

"Debris was scattered over an area of about 50 metres and the roof of one of the houses was in a tree across the road.

“Highly trained search and rescue crews are now searching through the rubble and sniffer dogs are being used to establish whether or not there is anyone inside any of the affected homes.

“We’re still investigating whether the fallen tree caused the gas explosion or whether the gas explosion caused the tree to fall. It’s likely firefighters will be on scene for much of the rest of the day.

“My thoughts, and those with everyone at the London Fire Brigade, are with all of the people who have been affected by this awful incident.”

Elsewhere in London, a fire brigade is working to remove a fallen marquee which damaged a roof in Kensington Gardens, Ilford.

All of the Royal Parks in London, including Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, have also been closed because of falling debris.

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