A GAS explosion in north Belfast could have killed several people, an SDLP councillor has said.
Dozens of families were evacuated from their homes just minutes before the explosion happened at Farringdon Gardens in Ardoyne.
A fire broke out at the terraced house at around 7pm yesterday evening.
People living in the house fled and their neighbours reported the blaze to the Fire Service.
Just 15 minutes after fire fighters evacuated nearby homes, the explosion happened, causing severe damage to the house.
There were no reports of any injuries.
The street is home to several families, including some with young children.
Speaking from the scene last night, SDLP councillor Paul McCusker said it was fortunate no one was killed.
"They have been very lucky," he said. "If it hadn't been for the quick actions of residents and the Fire Service we could have been looking at fatalities.
"Some people witnessed fire fighters being blown off their feet."
Mr McCusker said electricity and gas supplies to the street and other neighbouring roads had to be turned off for several hours as the Fire Service and police investigated the explosion.
Residents were allowed to return to their homes shortly before 10pm.
Sinn Féin councillor Gerry McCabe said the cause of the explosion was unclear.
"While it is early and we don’t know what was the exact source of the explosion many families as a result have had to be moved from their homes in order to maximise safety," he said.
He added: "I want to thank the quick response of the emergency services who are on the scene dealing with the incident".
