A natural gas explosion in Allentown, Pennsylvania left five people dead Wednesday evening. The explosion occurred around 10:45 p.m. when a suspected natural gas leak ignited and sparked a fire that burned into the morning. Investigators are now trying to determine what cause the explosion, which destroyed 8 homes and damaged 47 other properties.
Close to 350 people were evacuated from the area. Among those evacuated are 165 senior citizens from a nearby apartment complex. They were, however, later returned home safely.
According to the news site, NewsInferno, “The pipeline involved in the explosion was a cast-iron pipe installed in 1928, making it 83-years-old. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has warned in the past that such cast-iron pipes are subject to decay and in some cases in need of replacement. The federal Pipeline Safety Improvement Act of 2002 envisions replacement of such pipelines with safer materials, such as steel.”
If you or someone you know was injured or suffered damage to your property, please fill out our online form or contact one of our Allentown natural gas pipeline explosion lawyers. You may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced natural gas explosion lawyers are ready to review your case with no cost or obligation.