A house has been destroyed by an explosion in Kingstanding, Birmingham, with reports of casualties, although the number and severity are not yet known, West Midlands Police has said. A statement from West Midlands Police said officers were called at 8.38pm on Sunday.
People have been evacuated from the area and the ambulance service said they were dealing with a 'significant incident'.
The statement from West Midlands Police continued: “All emergency services and utility companies are at the scene of a house explosion on Dulwich Road, Kingstanding, Birmingham. One house is destroyed with others significantly damaged. Cars have also been damaged.
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“There are reports of casualties but the number and severity of their injuries is unknown at this time.
“Evacuations are taking place. Those evacuated will be told where to meet. People in the area must immediately follow the instructions of first responders.
“Dulwich Road and surrounding roads are closed and will be for a very long time. Please help us by avoiding the area. The cause of the explosion is not yet known.
“Please think of those involved and their loved ones and do not post images online. We will keep you updated regularly as soon as we have hard facts."
West Midlands Ambulance Service said: “We are currently dealing with a significant incident in Dulwich Road in the Kingstanding area of Birmingham. A large number of ambulances resources are at the scene along with @WestMidsFire and @WMPolice.
“The public are asked to keep away from the area to allow us to work."
West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) said six fire crews are in attendance at the scene of an explosion on Dulwich Road, Kingstanding, Birmingham.
The fire service tweeted: “Six fire crews are in attendance at this incident involving an explosion on Dulwich Road, Kingstanding. Please avoid the area at this time.”
In a statement on its website WMFS said: “At 20:38 fire crews responded to multiple reports of an explosion on Dulwich Lane, Kingstanding.
“The explosion, the cause of which is unknown at this time, has destroyed one property and caused damage to other properties and vehicles nearby.
“The number of casualties or injuries is not confirmed at this time. We are working hard with colleagues from West Midlands Police, West Midlands Ambulance, Cadent Gas and National Grid to manage this incident.
“Dulwich Road is closed and is expected to be for some time. People are urged to avoid the area to allow the emergency services to do their work. West Midlands Police are managing evacuations in the area and we urge those local to the incident to follow the instructions of emergency service officers at the scene.”
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