Major Gas Leak Reported in Downtown Miami

MIAMI, FL — A "major gas leak" in downtown Miami on Thursday afternoon forced multiple evacuations and snarled traffic. First responders asked motorists to avoid North Miami Avenue and East Flagler Street for a time before the leak was capped. Multiple units of Miami Fire Rescue were still on the scene well into rush hour.

The leak was discovered just after 2 p.m. at North Miami Avenue and Flagler Street, according to Capt. Ignatius Carroll of the Miami Fire Department.

"Fire Crews arrived to find a major gas line was cut by construction equipment while performing roadwork on Flagler Street," Carroll told Patch.

"Hazmat Crews evacuated small businesses along Flagler Street from North Miami Avenue to Miami Court as a precaution as the gas company attempts to fix the break," Carroll explained.

A Macy's in the area was also affected. "Most customers were able to leave the store on the south side of the store," added Carroll.

Miami police provided traffic control along Flagler Street.

No injuries were reported.

Photos courtesy of Miami Fire Rescue