NASHUA, N.H. — A powerful natural gas explosion rocked a commercial building Monday, sending shockwaves felt by residents and workers throughout the area. Eyewitnesses described the blast as deafening, with some reporting that their homes rattled from the impact. Emergency services rapidly mobilized in response to the incident, providing assistance to those affected.
William Closs, who was nearby at the time, recalled the immediacy of the situation. “It was incredibly loud. The ground actually shook,” he said. Upon receiving an emergency alert on his phone, Closs worked to evacuate those in the building next to the explosion. First responders were on scene quickly, coordinating the evacuation efforts. “They were very efficient and thorough,” Closs added, noting the urgency of the moment.
Another witness, identified only as John, was at home on Amherst Street when the explosion occurred. “I just heard this huge boom, and everything in the house shook,” he shared. The sound was so intense it felt like a sonic boom, leaving residents disoriented. Smoke filled the area, forcing those nearby to move away quickly while collecting what they could carry.
Fire crews from Nashua and surrounding communities, including Hollis, Merrimack, and Manchester, arrived promptly with equipment to manage the aftermath of the blast. “We couldn’t get down the street because of the water lines and debris, so we’re walking home,” John explained, highlighting the difficulties faced by residents attempting to navigate the area.
The incident also impacted local students. Those at the Academy of Science and Design found themselves in lockdown as a precaution. Parent Vitaye Bashyam expressed relief after receiving communication from the school, reassuring her that students were safe amid the chaos.
As first responders continued their efforts, Amherst Street was temporarily closed to traffic to aid in emergency operations. Authorities have since reopened the road, but investigators are still working to determine the cause of the explosion.
Overall, the event has left the community shaken, and the focus now shifts to understanding what led to this unexpected tragedy. Residents are grateful for the swift response of emergency personnel, whose actions helped minimize injuries and ensure safety in a tense situation.