MARCH 6, 2015
PORTLAND, MAINE (NEWS
CENTER)
Heavy snow caused a gas line to snap Friday on Congress
Street.
Portland Fire responded to 141 Congress St. and detected a
high level of natural gas. Officials then evacuated the building and
neighboring areas as a precaution.
Tim Nangle with Portland fire said that preliminary
investigation shows that a large amount of snow had accumulated on an exterior
gas meter, which caused the gas line to break.
"This has been a busy couple of months for us with gas
leaks. We are asking anyone who uses either natural gas or propane to ensure
that the gas meter and surrounding piping is clear of snow and ice," said
Nangle.
Until stopped the leak and has been making repairs. The city
of Portland said as soon as the air quality in the buildings is safe, residents
and occupants will be able to return.