Firefighters warn of explosion risk, buildings evacuated

Atlanta – The Atlanta Fire Rescue Department and Atlanta Gas are working on the scene of a large gas leak in downtown Atlanta.

According to the Georgia Department of Public Safety, construction crews were working on the corner of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and Piedmont Avenue SW when they ruptured a gas line shortly after 9 a.m. Wednesday.

Vehicle and pedestrian traffic in the area is being redirected.

The Georgia Capitol was evacuated as a precaution after air quality readings showed gas levels in the area were concerning, and at approximately 10:30 a.m. the fire department ordered the evacuation and closure of the Georgia MARTA station.

As a result, train service to the station was suspended. The bus bridge was used to provide transportation between Five Points and King Memorial stations. MARTA also said MARTAConnect is available to customers who want to use Uber or Lyft.

At approximately 1:15 p.m., the Atlanta Fire Department posted on social media that there was a risk of explosion due to a gas leak and asked everyone to avoid the area. The fire department also told FOX 5 Atlanta that a nearby day care center was evacuated.

Officials are also advising people in the area who have breathing problems to take precautions, although there is currently no particular risk. They are also asking people to avoid the area if they can help it.

This story is evolving. Check back for details. If you have any additional information, pictures or videos please email [email protected].