News
Natural Gas Fire
Early in the morning on Friday 14th November 2008, a large storm passed over most of Melbourne. At around 4.45am, several large pine trees were struck by lightning in Stewart Ave, Wandin Nth.
The lightning jumped between 3 trees before hitting the ground and damaging the gas main running near the base of the trees. The burning tree soon ignited the resulting gas leak. By the time fire crews arrived, the gas was leaking up through the ground and burning an area approximately 5 meters by 3 meters.
Wandin Fire Brigade decided to let the gas burn - if it was put out, gas would be leaking out and spreading in unknown directions causing an explosion risk. The gas company was advised and once they arrived, dug up the gas main further up the road in order to isolate the line. Once the line was isolated, the fire burned itself out safely within 60 seconds.
The fire burns while awaiting the arrival of gas company.
Lightning damage caused to one of the trees which were struck.