Florida Turnpike Gas Explosion Remains Under Investigation After Shelter In Place Advisory Is Lifted

Following the gas line eruption on Florida’s Turnpike, fire rescuers have lifted the shelter-in-place advisory for the affected area.

The Palm Beach Post reported that the explosion took place around 9:50 a.m. on Thursday when crews received a report about a ruptured gas line along the turnpike.

The eruption, which happened near Lake Worth Road, caused Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) to shut down both Southbound and Northbound directions of the Turnpike in Palm Beach County.

At the time, residents in the area were told to shelter in place as officials investigated the matter further. The order has since been lifted, though the investigation is still ongoing.

FHP officials are advising drivers to “please use caution and avoid [the] area if possible.” Local 10 reported that FHP Lt. Yanko Reyes said the cause of the eruption has not been determined.

“The erupted pipeline compromised the integrity of the overpass northbound, and the Turnpike was closed in both directions for public safety,” Reyes explained.

“The cause of the eruption is unknown at this time, as investigators continue to assess the scene.”

A video of what is believed to be the eruption was shared online. In the clip, what appears to be gas is seen gushing from a broken pipeline that is parallel to the Florida Turnpike.

The investigation is expected to be conducted by the Florida Gas Transmission Company and FDOT/Turnpike.