A gas leak in a Hermiston neighborhood led to the evacuation of several homes on Saturday evening, Aug. 5. Umatilla County Fire District No. 1 firefighters were called to the scene on Northeast Gladys Drive, south of Sandstone Middle School. The gas leak occurred when occupants of a home accidentally struck a 2.5-inch Cascade Natural Gas line while digging tree stumps.
Battalion Chief J.W. Roberts confirmed that the department promptly evacuated homes within a three-square-block area, extending from 10th to 12th streets on Gladys and in the surrounding area. Firefighters worked diligently to isolate the gas leak, blocking traffic and monitoring for gas both inside and outside the evacuation zone.
Trent Waldern, a resident living on N.E. 11th St. and Gladys, shared his experience of being evacuated from his home. He recounted how firefighters knocked on his front door, informing him of the gas leak and the need to evacuate. Waldern described the situation as a pretty major gas leak.
After hours of careful intervention, residents were permitted to return to their homes around 7 p.m. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the incident. Cascade Natural Gas crews were expected to have the gas line fully repaired by approximately 9 p.m., according to Roberts. The Hermiston Herald attempted to reach out to Cascade Natural Gas for comment but was unable to obtain a response.
The swift response from Umatilla County Fire District No. 1 ensured the safety of residents in the affected area. Firefighters efficiently handled the situation, evacuating homeowners, isolating the gas leak, and monitoring the surroundings for any potential risks. The collaboration between the fire department and Cascade Natural Gas helped resolve the issue in a timely manner, alleviating concerns and ensuring the well-being of the community.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of exercising caution during construction activities that involve digging, as even a minor mistake can lead to significant disruptions and potential hazards. The cooperation and expertise demonstrated by emergency responders and utility crews highlight the community’s ability to effectively respond to such emergencies.
In conclusion, the gas leak in the Hermiston neighborhood prompted the evacuation of homes in the vicinity as a precautionary measure. Thanks to the prompt action taken by Umatilla County Fire District No. 1 and Cascade Natural Gas, the situation was swiftly addressed, allowing residents to return home safely. The incident underscores the significance of maintaining vigilance and following proper safety protocols during construction projects to prevent such incidents in the future.
