Pipeline explosion near Hesston contained

An explosion that sent flames 75 to 100 feet into the air in Harvey County is now contained, according to Harvey County emergency officials.

Rob Southard, a spokesman with the Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline, said the gas that was feeding the fire has been shut off. Once the area is deemed safe, a crew will go in and assess repairs.

Southard said it's highly unlikely a cause will be determined today. He said it could take several weeks for that to happen.

Capt. Andy Wray, with Hesston Fire & EMS, said the blast of a pipeline spread to the surrounding wheat stubble field and grass. Crews from Harvey County and McPherson working to contain the stubble and grass fire. There were no injuries or damage to structures.

Wray said the American Red Cross and the Harvey County Emergency Response Team were requested due to the heat and high demands on firefighters.

Crews will be on the scene throughout the day to monitor the fire.

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Harvey County emergency crews are working to contain a pipeline fire west of Hesston.

A spokesperson with the Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline says the pipeline ruptured around 7:45 a.m. near West Dutch and Hertzler.

Crews are allowing the natural gas in the pipeline to burn off, before shutting it down.

Company officials say no one was hurt in the incident.

Sheriff's deputies have closed off the area of West Dutch and Hertzler while crews work.

Residents are asked to avoid the area.

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Harvey County dispatchers say crews are responding to reports of a pipeline explosion and fire southwest of Hesston.

Dispatchers told Eyewitness News flames are shooting 75 to 100 feet into the air.

The Hesston Record reports on Facebook that there are no injuries or structures damaged. Pipeline is shut off and now waiting for bleed out of gas.

We have a crew headed to the scene. Look for updates on-air and online.