The entire block of downtown Chilliwack was evacuated Monday morning (June 15) as an emergency safety precaution after a gas leak was reported on Wellington Avenue.
The smell of gas was strong in the street as emergency responders were called to the alley at the rear of Wellington Avenue, where someone had called it in just before 9 a.m.
Investigating fire officials determined the entire commercial/residential block had to be evacuated due to a buildup of gas, from Young Road to Mill Street on Wellington, as well as Victoria Avenue.
Crews were set up around the perimeter after it was determined there was a gas leak in the alley of the property at 45929 Wellington.
Fortis BC crews were on site, and had called for back up to assist.
A BC Hydro crew was called to shut off power to the downtown block and was expected on-scene at about 10:30 a.m.
The evacuation was under way at 9:05 a.m. and crews were set up around the perimeter with evacuated residents and business people mustering in Central Community Park.