Major natural gas leak closes streets in downtown Sudbury

A major gas leak on Durham Street closed several streets in downtown Sudbury on Monday.

In a social media post Monday just after noon, deputy fire chief Jesse Oshell asked the public to avoid the area saying it appears that a natural gas line was struck by construction crews in the area.

• Download the CTV News app now and get local alerts on your device
• Get local breaking news and updates sent to your email inbox

“On scene for a major gas leak due to construction on Durham at Larch,” Oshell said.

“Downtown has a strong odour of natural gas and several streets are closed. Please avoid the area, Enbridge is on scene.”

Greater Sudbury police said three intersections connected to Larch and Durham streets closed as a result. Oshell told CTV's Alana Everson that no evacuation order has been issued.

"People can leave if they choose. but right now there is no accumulation in any building causing us concerns," he said.

As far the cause, Oshell said it appears that an excavator working on a road project made contact with the gas line.

"I believe it is a six-inch natural gas line," he said.

"And Enbridge crews are here to find the correct valve and ensure it's isolated as quickly as possible."

As of Tuesday morning, the roads closed due to the gas leak have been reopened, however, the existing construction zone on Larch Street remains closed.