JACKSON COUNTY -- A source from Columbia Gas Transmission Corporation has informed 13News that a major gas leak just north of Ripley has been secured.
The spokesperson said workers are currently performing controlled gas release to remove pressure, a standard safety procedure.
Emergency Services Director Walter Smittle said the controlled gas release is to remove condensation around a well head which is frozen. Repairs will take place once the controlled gas release is complete.
Until the repairs are complete, Smittle said the roads closures, shelter-in-place and evacuation will continue. Smittie offered no estimate regarding how long the process could take.
The road closures include areas of Route 21 and Walter's Run. An estimated 20 homes have been evacuated.
The leak, which started in a storage field, resulted in no fire and no injuries, according to the spokesperson.
According to the Columbia Gas spokesperson, the problem appears to have been an issue with a valve.
An investigation is currently under way.
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BREAKING NEWS: Major Gas Leak in Jackson County, Evacuations Under Way
Columbia Gas is confirming that a major gas leak has been reported north of Ripley out of Jackson County, West Virginia this evening.
The leak happened around 5 p.m. on Route 21 in the area of Walter's Run.
Police are now on the scene redirecting traffic.
Meanwhile, Jackson County 911 officials are asking for residents and motorists to avoid the area.
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