Castaic Gas Leak Triggers Shelter‑in‑Place and Major Freeway Closure in Los Angeles County

A major Castaic gas leak forced a shelter‑in‑place order on Saturday in northern Los Angeles County. The leak came from a large underground natural gas line near Ridge Route Road. Officials closed all lanes of the 5 Freeway in both directions. The incident drew a wide emergency response.Authorities acted fast due to strong gas odors reported across several nearby communities. The Los Angeles Fire Department said there was no immediate threat to the city of Los Angeles. But crews kept the area sealed for safety while gas continued to vent from the line.

Castaic Gas Leak Prompts Road Closures and Safety Orders

The leak was reported around 4:20 p.m., according to coverage from ABC 7 and other local outlets. It came from a 36‑inch natural gas line just east of the southbound lanes of the 5 Freeway. Officials said the line was releasing gas under high pressure.The California Highway Patrol closed both northbound and southbound lanes at Lake Hughes Road. Traffic was diverted to State Route 126 or State Route 138. CHP said the closures would stay in place until crews confirmed that the area was safe.Residents in Charley Canyon, Wayside, and Hillcrest were told to stay inside. Many people reported smelling strong gas as far away as Santa Clarita, Valencia, and Granada Hills. According to Reuters, gas leaks of this size can force wide emergency zones due to fire risk.Fire crews worked in the area through the evening. They kept a large perimeter to prevent sparks or ignition sources from coming near the leak. No explosions or injuries were reported. Video shared online showed a loud jet of gas shooting into the air.

How the Castaic Gas Leak Impacts Daily Life and Safety

The gas leak caused long traffic delays on one of California’s busiest highways. Many drivers turned to side roads, which also slowed under extra volume. Officials urged people to avoid the area until the line could be isolated and depressurized.Natural gas leaks can create major risks because the gas is flammable and spreads fast. Emergency teams often act with caution to prevent fires. In this case, crews said the leak was large but stable. They focused on keeping people at a safe distance.The area around Castaic includes neighborhoods, open land, and parts of the State Water Project. The leak did not affect water operations or local utilities. But it added stress for residents already dealing with holiday travel and busy weekend traffic.Investigators will review how the underground line ruptured. Large pipes can break from pressure issues, soil movement, or accidental damage. Officials expect to release more details after the line is secured.

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Crews expect to work for several hours until the Castaic gas leak is fully contained. Drivers and residents are urged to follow local alerts and stay clear of the closed freeway zone.

A quick knowledge drop for you-

Q1: What caused the Castaic gas leak?

Officials say the gas came from a ruptured 36‑inch underground line. The cause is still under review. More details will come after the site is secured.

Q2: Is the area safe?

Crews set a wide safety zone to prevent danger. No injuries or fires were reported. People were asked to stay indoors near the leak.

Q3: How far did the gas smell spread?

Residents reported strong odors in Santa Clarita, Valencia, and Granada Hills. The smell spread fast due to wind and pressure from the line.

Q4: Why was the 5 Freeway closed?

The freeway was closed to reduce ignition risks. It also kept the area clear for emergency crews. Traffic was diverted to nearby state routes.

Q5: How long will repairs take?

Officials have not given a clear timeline. Repairs depend on pressure control and pipe access. Updates will come as crews make progress.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, AP News, ABC 7 Los Angeles