The bustling I-5 Freeway near Castaic, California, came to an abrupt halt on Saturday evening due to a dramatic gas line explosion. This sudden incident led authorities to issue an urgent shelter-in-place order for nearby residents, highlighting the severity of the situation.

At approximately 4:20 p.m. Pacific Time, a 34-inch gas transmission line exploded near Ridge Route Road and Pine Crest Place. This line, as Los Angeles County Fire officials reported, was under a significant pressure of 600 psi. Investigations are currently underway to determine the precise cause of the explosion, according to KTLA 5.

For those living in the vicinity, the explosion was nothing short of alarming. Many described the sound as resembling that of a jet engine, with a force powerful enough to make their homes tremble. Residents from the nearby areas of Granada Hills, Porter Ranch, and Sylmar also reported a strong smell of gas permeating the air, adding to the distress caused by the event.

In response to the explosion, Los Angeles County Fire officials issued a clear directive: “Seek shelter inside. Close all doors, windows, and vents. Shut off HVAC systems.” This precautionary measure aimed to protect individuals from any potential hazards resulting from the gas leak.

The dramatic scene was quickly captured and shared on social media, where videos of the explosion rapidly gained attention and spread virally, illustrating the magnitude of the incident.

“Seek shelter inside,” Los Angeles County Fire officials said. “Close all doors, windows and vents. Shut off HVAC systems.”

Video of the scene immediately went viral on social media:

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) said in a statement that officials are monitoring the situation. She also warned residents that although they may smell gas in the air from the leak’s epicenter, they are in no immediate danger.