A TERRACED house was destroyed in a suspected gas blast that left a woman in hospital and homes evacuated.
Hundreds of primary school kids were said to have been marched to safety following the explosion in Bury, Greater Manchester, this morning.
Drone footage shows substantial damage to two neighbouring properties on Nelson Street, in the Fishpool area.
While video from the horror shows smoke rising into the sky as dozens of emergency responders deal with the incident.
A 200 metre cordon is also place and “multiple” emergency service vehicles, including specialist rescue units, are at the scene.
Engineers from distribution company Cadent are at the scene, the company confirmed.
The firm it was “too early” to confirm what caused the blast.
Councillor Tamoor Tariq, who represents Redvales Ward, says the “awful” incident took place near to St Luke’s primary school.
Mr Tariq, currently out of the country, added: “Heartbreaking to share there has been a gas explosion in the last few minutes right across from my house.
“St Luke’s primary have also evacuated children, as they are just yards away.”
Greater Manchester Police said: “Emergency services are currently responding to reports of an explosion at a property on Nelson Street in the Fishpool area of Bury.
“At this stage, a woman in her 70s has been taken to hospital with serious injuries.
“A 200m cordon is in place around the property and neighbouring homes.
“Local residents and the community will be informed if they need to take any further action.”
A fire brigade spokesperson said: “Multiple fire engines from across Greater Manchester along with the technical response unit from Ashton fire station are currently in attendance at an incident involving terraced houses on Nelson Street in Bury.
“Firefighters are working alongside Greater Manchester Police and North West Ambulance Service and residents are asked to avoid the area at this time.”