Horizontal drilling machine ruptures gas line in NE Portland [Video]

PORTLAND Ore. (KPTV) – A horizontal drilling machine ruptured a natural gas pipe near Northeast 138 and Airport Way on Monday.

The ruptured gas line was clamped Monday at about 4:50 p.m.

The hole used to access the line is in the westbound lanes of Northeast Airport Way, it is unknown when this section of road will be available for use.

Portland Fire & Rescue responded to the scene to check the area and evacuated buildings for safety. An investigation is underway to figure out the severity of the rupture.

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All nearby buildings were evacuated as a precaution, but no gas readings were picked up inside.

NW Natural responded to assist. Crews began hand digging to find the suspected leak in hopes of eliminating the gas leak.

The scent of natural gas is present outside near the location of the suspected rupture.

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