A suspected gas explosion at a terraced house has left a woman seriously injured and forced the evacuation of surrounding homes.
The blast took place in Bury, near Manchester, shortly before 11am on Wednesday. The injured woman, in her 70s, has been taken to hospital.
A witness told the BBC that the property had been badly damaged, with clouds of smoke filling the air around nearby streets.
Local councillor Tamoor Tariq described the incident as a “gas explosion” and said a nearby school had also been evacuated.
Police have cordoned off the street, as the fire service told residents to keep their windows closed.
In a statement, Greater Manchester Police said: “Emergency services are currently responding to reports of an explosion at a property on Nelson Street in the Fishpool area of Bury.
“At this stage, a woman in her 70s has been taken to hospital with serious injuries.
“A 200 metre cordon is in place around the property and neighbouring homes.
“Local residents and the community will be made aware if they need to take any further action.”
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said “multiple crews” were in attendance working alongside other emergency services.
GMFRS added: “Residents in the area are advised to keep windows and doors closed and avoid the scene while crews carry out their work.”
Cllr Tariq, who represents Redvales Ward, posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Heartbreaking to share there has been a gas explosion in the last few minutes right across from my house.
“I understand everyone has been taken into a place of safety and emergency services are doing all possible to deal with this awful situation. St Luke’s primary have also evacuated children, as they are just yards away.
“I remain out of the country due to a family member being critical but I am keeping in touch with all relevant people/authorities.”
