Large gas leak at downtown Seattle construction site causes evacuations, street closures

A large natural gas main leak in downtown Seattle caused crews to close streets and evacuate buildings.

Fire crews were called to a construction site at First Avenue and Cherry Street at about 8:16 a.m. Friday.

Firefighters evacuated the area from Yesler Way to Columbia on First and Second avenues.

The southbound lanes were blocked at First and Cherry.

The gas leak was contained at about 9:15 a.m., but the area was still blocked off while Seattle fire and Puget Sound Energy Crews ensured there was not a dangerous level of natural gas in the area.

All streets were back open by about 10:30 a.m.

All clear! 1st Ave from Marion St to Yesler St is now open. Thanks to our @SeattlePD and @SeattleFire crews for their work to secure the area and keep us safe. We're back in action!
— seattledot (@seattledot) October 19, 2018