Workers relighting gas after evacuation lifted in Lumby, B.C.

LUMBY, B.C. – Residents of a small community west of Lumby, B.C., were allowed back into their homes last night after a major gas line rupture that also knocked out power and closed a highway.

But some 1,200 people remain without gas while energy utility FortisBC continues to make repairs.

The line was severed about 9 a.m. Thursday when a car crashed in Lavington, shutting down Highway 6, forcing the evacuation of about 65 homes and clearing out the elementary school.

The leak was capped by about 7:30 p.m., prompting the evacuation order to be lifted and highway to be re-opened just after 8:30 p.m.

Fortis workers must now go door-to-door to re-light appliances — a task they expect to complete by Saturday night.

The community has opened a heating room in a public hall, while officials are reminding residents not to operate barbecues, camp stoves or lanterns in an enclosed space to avoid potentially deadly carbon monoxide buildup. (CKIZ)