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Gas company officials said too much pressure in the line caused a series of fires and explosions in Fairport Harbor in Lake County Monday morning, prompting a town-wide evacuation.

The first call about a fire came in at 6:44 a.m. Firefighters said within 15 minutes, the fire spread to a second home next door.

About 30 calls also came in to 9-1-1 about the odor of natural gas.

Dominion Gas officials said too much gas was being pushed into the main gas line going into Fairport Harbor. This caused pilot lights to flare up and expand, causing the fires and some in explosions in 12 to 15 homes and buildings.

The gas company said the pressure has since been brought back to a normal level, but crews will check every home in the village in the next couple days.

The area most affected by the situation was High Street North and to the east.

As of 11:10 a.m., there are still two active fire situations that crews are working on. The evacuation orders are still in place and it’s difficult to get back into town.

The entire village was being evacuated, and fire crews from about a dozen local cities responded to the scene. Residents are being told they can take shelter at a nearby senior center, at 1380 East St., and buses are transporting residents to safety.

Residents looking for information can call either of these numbers: 440-350-5469 or 440-350-5470.

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article courtesy of Newsnet5.com

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