Tree Falls in Wind, Breaks Gas Line
CANOGA PARK — High winds were believed to be responsible for toppling a tree that ruptured a natural gas line near a two-story apartment building Wednesday night, authorities said.
As of late Wednesday night, firefighters were working to reach and close the broken three-inch gas main, said Brian Humphrey, a spokesman for the Los Angeles Fire Department.
No injuries were reported but as a precaution the gas was cut off to the complex and the residents there were evacuated, he said, adding that a portion of the street had also been cordoned off.
The tree fell just after 8 p.m., in the 8300 block of Variel Avenue, according to authorities. Property damage had not been estimated.
Winds ranging from 15 to 25 mph pounded Southern California most of the evening, said Jon Erdman, a meteorologist with WeatherData Inc., which provides weather information to The Times.
He said the winds would strengthen through the night to 35 to 45 mph, with gusts reaching 60 mph and would last through most of the morning today.
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