Update: Emergency workers respond to natural gas line rupture

The Saskatoon Fire Department and SaskEnergy crews remain on scene of a ruptured natural gas line which happened around 10:13 this morning.

A private contractor was performing some drilling work on 30 street when it happened. Nine homes in the immediate area were notified, five homes were currently empty; occupants in four other homes moved to a safer location of their choosing.

Right now, everyone is safe; public school board officials notified parents and coordinated with the Emergency Measures Command Bus which is also on scene.

Caswell School students are sheltering in place. Residents within a one block radius have also been advised to shelter in place as a precaution to minimize movement in the area. The wind is currently from the northeast; the school is upwind from the work zone.

School officials are communicating directly with parents and guardians to inform them of pick-up options at the end of the school day. From 3:00 p.m. to approximately 3:30 p.m. the Saskatoon Police Service will restrict northbound traffic on Avenue B at 29 street accommodate school buses.

Emergency and work crews are expected to be on scene for most of the afternoon.