Natural Gas Leak Closes 5 Freeway in Castaic, Urgent Response Underway

URGENT UPDATE: A significant natural gas leak has caused an emergency shutdown of all lanes on the 5 Freeway in Castaic, California. The incident was first reported at approximately 4:20 p.m. today.

Officials from the Los Angeles County Fire Department are on the scene, responding to the leak which is emanating from a main gas line near the intersection of Ridge Route Road and Pine Crest Place. Captain Brian Knight confirmed that while there have been no explosions or injuries reported, the situation remains critical.

The California Highway Patrol has closed both northbound and southbound lanes of the freeway at Lake Hughes Road. Motorists are being redirected: northbound traffic is being diverted to SR-126, while southbound traffic is directed to SR-138. Authorities have also issued a shelter-in-place order for nearby communities, including Charley Canyon, Hillcrest, and Wayside.

Residents in the surrounding areas, including Santa Clarita, Stevenson Ranch, and Valencia, reported hearing loud booms and experiencing a strong smell of gas. This has heightened concerns about public safety, prompting immediate action from local emergency services.

As crews work to control the leak, updates will be provided. Authorities are currently assessing the situation and are investigating which company operates the affected gas line.

Stay tuned for more developments on this breaking story as officials continue to manage the emergency response. Share this urgent news to keep others informed.