Arcadia, Indiana Under Evacuation Order Following Gas Main Strike
ARCADIA, Ind. – Residents of Arcadia, Indiana, were placed under an urgent evacuation order Monday evening after a significant gas main was struck by a contractor performing fiber optic work. The incident, reported at 7:20 p.m., triggered a swift response from the Hamilton County Emergency Management Agency and local authorities.
What Happened?
According to the Arcadia Police Department, an independent contractor working on fiber installation accidentally damaged a large gas main within the town. Initial assessments indicate repairs could take six hours or more, necessitating the evacuation of nearby residents to ensure public safety.
Evacuation Zone Details
Authorities issued alerts instructing individuals within a quarter-mile radius of the intersection of West East Street and Howard Avenue to evacuate immediately. The defined evacuation zone is bordered by:
- West: Olive Street
- East: State Road 19
- North: 266th Street
- South: South Rollins Street
Residents were directed to move away from the East and Howard streets intersection. The Arcadia Town Hall was opened as a shelter and information center for those affected by the evacuation. CenterPoint Energy, the natural gas provider for Arcadia, is working to resolve the issue.
Community Impact
Arcadia is a small community of approximately 1,400 residents, according to STATS Indiana. The disruption caused by the gas leak and evacuation order has understandably raised concerns among locals. The Hamilton County Emergency Management Agency is coordinating efforts to provide support and updates to the community.
Latest Updates & All-Clear
As of 10:22 p.m. Monday, the Jackson Township Fire Department announced that residents were cleared to return to their homes, with the exception of those residing in the 200 block of East Howard Avenue. Officials stated they will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates via social media once the area is fully deemed safe.
Stay informed by following the Jackson Township Fire Department on social media for the most up-to-date information. You can also find resources and updates on the Hamilton County Government website.
(Image provided by Jackson Township Fire Department in Hamilton County, Indiana)
