Mass Explosions and Fires Reported Near Boston, Massachusetts

Explosions and fires were reported in Massachusetts cities near Boston on Sept. 13, according to officials.

Officials believe the explosions and fires were due to gas.

“Residents in the affected towns of Lawrence/North Andover/Andover who have gas service from Columbia Gas should evacuate their homes immediately if they have not already done so. Gas lines are currently being depressurized by the company it will take some time,” wrote Massachusetts State Police on Twitter at around 6:10 p.m. ET.

Several structures have been set on fire and evacuations were forced in Lawrence and North Andover, CNN reported.

State police told the network that 17 addresses were on fire or had exploded.

“Numerous evacuations” are going on in places were gas was, State Police tweeted at around 5:50 p.m. ET. “Troopers are on scene assisting with scene security and traffic control,” State Police added.

State Police noted that it is “far too early to speculate” about the cause, and “joint investigation will be conducted when situation is stabilized.”

Other details about the incident are not clear.