A square block area of Atlantic was evacuated this (Thursday) morning, following a gas line rupture at 5th and Elm Streets.  Atlantic Assistant Fire Chief Tim Cappel told KJAN News a crew working on a sewer line punctured a gas line just after 10-a.m.

Gas line punctured at 5th & maple. View looking east from 5th & Elm Streets (Ric Hanson/photo)

Gas could be heard whistling from the site, as fire and police personnel worked to cordon-off the area and evacuate local residences and businesses. Cappel said they anticipated the evacuation would remain in-place for about four hours.

The public is asked to stay away from the area until the leak is fixed.