Editor/
Emergency services are at the scene of a house in Birmingham which has been completely destroyed in an explosion this evening, damaging several others.
Police have said there have been reports of casualties but the number and “severity” of the injuries is unknown at the moment.
The blast is said to have been heard from half a mile away, and a number of vehicles have also been damaged in the area.
One house on Dulwich Road, Kingstanding, has been completely destroyed and significantly damaged others, as well as cars on the street.
West Midlands Police were called to the scene at 8.38pm.
The ambulance service has asked the public to keep away at this time to allow them to work after large crowds gathered around the cordon police made after news of the blast spread.
West Midlands Ambulance service have said as of 11pm ambulance staff are continuing to work at the scene of the explosion.
The police said in a statement, “Evacuations are taking place. Those evacuated will be told where to meet. People in the area must immediately follow the instructions of first responders.
“Dulwich Road and surround roads are closed and will be for a very long time. Please help us by avoiding the area. The cause of the explosion is not yet known.
“Please think of those involved and their loved ones and do not post images online.
“We will keep you updated regularly as soon as we have hard facts.”
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