URGENT UPDATE: A significant natural gas leak has shut down ALL lanes of the 5 Freeway in Castaic, California, causing major traffic disruptions. The incident was first reported at approximately 4:20 PM on Saturday, with crews actively responding to the scene.
According to Captain Brian Knight of Los Angeles County Fire, the leak is emanating from a main gas line located just east of the southbound lanes of the freeway, near the intersection of Ridge Route Road and Pine Crest Place. Fortunately, there are no reports of explosions or injuries at this time.
In response to the situation, the California Highway Patrol has closed both northbound and southbound lanes of the freeway at Lake Hughes Road. Drivers are being redirected, with northbound traffic diverted to SR-126 and southbound traffic rerouted to SR-138.
A shelter-in-place order has been issued for nearby communities, including Charley Canyon, Hillcrest, and Wayside, as a precautionary measure. Residents in the surrounding areas have reported hearing loud booms and experiencing a strong odor of gas in locations such as Santa Clarita, Stevenson Ranch, and Valencia.
This developing situation is being closely monitored. Authorities are urging everyone to stay clear of the area as crews work to manage the leak and ensure public safety. As this is a breaking news event, stay tuned for further updates on this critical situation.
