**Three Hospitalised After Suspected Gas Explosion Levels Home in Yate**
Three people have been taken to hospital following a suspected gas explosion that destroyed a house on Lancaster Road in Yate, South Gloucestershire, early on Tuesday morning. Emergency crews continue to manage the major incident, with several homes evacuated and a cordon erected around the affected area as investigations commence.
Dramatic footage shared online captured thick plumes of smoke and flames pouring from the remains of a semi-detached property, leaving the local community in shock. The explosion, which occurred shortly before 7am on 29 April, left the house a wreck amid widespread debris. The noise of the blast was reportedly heard across a wide area, sending residents rushing to their windows.
Avon Fire and Rescue Service were among the first to respond, quickly deploying multiple crews to tackle the blaze and secure the site. A spokesperson confirmed that firefighters remain at the scene, working to prevent any further hazards and supporting colleagues from other emergency services. Locals have been urged to avoid the area to allow clear access for emergency vehicles.
Avon and Somerset Police have confirmed that three people have been hospitalised with injuries described as neither life-threatening nor life-changing. A fourth individual received minor injuries and was assessed by paramedics at the scene. The prompt response from emergency services has been praised for averting a more severe outcome.
In response to the incident, some residents from neighbouring properties have been evacuated as a precaution. A nearby public house is serving as a refuge centre for those temporarily displaced, providing shelter and support until their homes are deemed safe. Authorities are maintaining a substantial cordon, and there is an ongoing request for the public to keep roads clear of unnecessary traffic.
The cause of the explosion remains under investigation. While early reports pointed to a gas explosion, this has yet to be confirmed. Austen Shopland, Emergency Service Manager for Wales & West Utilities in Bristol, explained: “We were called to reports of an explosion at a property in the Lancaster Road area of Yate in Bristol this morning and immediately sent a team of engineers. On arrival, we saw substantial structural damage and worked alongside emergency services to secure the scene. At present, we do not know what caused the explosion, and our engineers are assisting partners as enquiries continue.”
Local MP for Thornbury and Yate, Claire Young, has expressed her concern and gratitude in a statement via Facebook: “My thoughts are with those who are affected by the suspected gas explosion. Thank you to all the emergency services who have responded so quickly and professionally.”
Incidents of this nature are rare but can have devastating consequences for families and communities. The swift collaboration between fire crews, police, ambulances, and gas engineers is a testament to the preparedness of local emergency services. Updates from authorities stress the priority of safety for both responders and the public in the aftermath.
Residents of Lancaster Road and the surrounding areas can expect a continued emergency service presence as structural assessments and site safety evaluations proceed. The situation underscores the importance of community support during emergencies, with local businesses and residents rallying together to offer practical help and comfort to those affected.
As investigations continue into the cause of the blast, questions remain about what led to such a destructive event. Authorities are urging anybody with information to come forward, while reassurances are being issued about the thoroughness of safety checks in the neighbourhood. Further updates are expected as the circumstances surrounding the explosion become clearer.