Gas leak prompts dozens of evacuations near South Roxboro Street in Durham

Dozens of people evacuated their homes in Durham after a gas leak.

Durham Fire Department and Enbridge Gas crews were on scene working to fix the leak at the intersection of South Roxboro Street and Dunstan Avenue in Durham. That's a few blocks away from NC Central University.

The leak was discovered after people reported smelling an odor around 2 a.m. Thursday. Crews found the leak migrating underground along utility lines beneath the street. 

They said natural gas was detected inside nearby buildings, so first responders evacuated roughly 35 people from the area to C.C. Spaulding Elementary School while crews worked.

"The area was isolated, and Enbridge Gas responded to the incident and is actively working to stop the leak and make the area safe," the fire department said.

The fire department said no one has been hurt that it knows of. Crews will remain at the scene until the leak is under control and the area is safe for people to return. 

The WRAL Breaking News Tracker arrived as Durham police blocked off Dunstan Avenue.

It is unclear how long it will take Enbridge crews to fix the leak or when the road will be back open.

"The Durham Fire Department appreciates the cooperation and patience of residents during this incident and reminds the public to immediately report any suspected natural gas odor by calling 911 and avoiding potential ignition sources in the area," the fire department said.