Seven people were severely burned and two people are missing after a gas line exploded in Shelby County, Ala. on Monday afternoon, about 1 mile from the same area where the Colonial gas pipeline leak happened earlier this summer.
The explosion, which occurred at a Colonial Pipeline facility in a remote area, happened when eight or nine subcontractors were trying to flush out the line, according to local news reports.
Shelby County Sheriff John Samaniego told AL.com that the heat from the blaze is hindering the search for the two workers still missing. He also said the flames are still burning and reaching about 50 feet in the air.
"The fire will not be out any time soon," said Shelby County Sheriff Maj. Ken Burchfield.
Seven people were either being treated or being transported to the University of Alabama Birmingham Hospital.
Two homes were evacuated and Colonial shut off both the pipelines that run through the area, according to AL.com. The explosion last month led to gasoline shortages and higher prices across the South.
"My office is closely monitoring the explosion in Helena, receiving updates from state & local officials," said Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley. "Pray for workers, rescue personnel."
Law-enforcement officials say the incident appears to be an accident.
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