
HOPE MILLS, N.C. (WTVD) -- Authorities are responding to a natural gas leak in Cumberland County after a construction crew struck a gas line near Camden Road and Rockfish Road late Wednesday morning.
Cumberland County Emergency Services says the initial 911 call came in at 10:25 a.m. Crews began closing roads about 10 minutes later as a precaution.
Camden Road is shut down between Rockfish Road and Wipperwill Drive and is expected to remain closed for about 24 hours while crews work to secure the area and repair the line. Officials say Teeters Road is the closest side street affected by the closure.
Several nearby households have been evacuated, while some residents in the immediate area are sheltering in place. Emergency Services says everyone impacted by the leak has already been notified.
Hazmat teams are on scene, and officials say air-quality readings remain safe at this time. However, due to shifting wind conditions, the smell of natural gas may be noticeable in nearby neighborhoods. Officials stress that the odor alone does not mean there is an immediate danger and that crews are actively monitoring conditions.
Cumberland County Emergency Services is also coordinating with Cumberland County Schools to make sure any nearby campuses receive appropriate notifications.
People are urged to avoid the Camden Road corridor until further notice and to follow instructions from emergency personnel.
Anyone with questions or concerns can contact Cumberland County Emergency Services at 910-321-6736.