Update: Gas Leak Closes Providence Road

Update Oct. 23, 4:20 p.m.: Hillsborough County Fire Rescue reports that Providence Road remains closed at this time as HAZMAT crews work with TECO Gas to repair a broken natural gas main.

Earlier Thursday a construction worker struck a 6-inch gas main at the entrance to Avery Park townhomes. The main is being clamped off, but work is not yet complete. There is no evacuation at this time, but motorists are asked to avoid the area.

Update Oct. 23, 2:29 p.m.: Hillsborough County Fire Rescue has confirmed the gas leak is located at 5602 Providence Road. It is unclear if nearby homes or businesses have been evacuated at this time, but Fire Rescue says the roadway remains closed both north and southbound from Bloomingdale Avenue to Providence Ridge.

Earlier:

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is warning Brandon area motorists that Providence Road is shut down in both directions north of Bloomingdale Avenue.

According to spokeswoman Debbie Carter, a gas leak has forced the closing.

It is unclear when the roadway will reopen at this time.

Stay with Patch for updates as they become available.

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