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House 'explodes' and collapses 'moments after homeowner put key in door'

House collapses in Portsmouth after suspected explosion - UK News In Pictures/Stuart Vaizey
House collapses in Portsmouth after suspected explosion - UK News In Pictures/Stuart Vaizey

Police are investigating after a house collapsed in Portsmouth in a suspected explosion.

Emergency services were called to Langford Road in the Copnor area of the city at 8.30am on Wednesday.

Pictures show the roof completely caved in and the house in ruins, as well as severe damage to neighbouring properties and vehicles.

It was reported that the woman who lives in the house saw her property collapse around her moments after putting her key into the front door.

The damage in Langford Road - UK News In Pictures/Stuart Vaizey
The damage in Langford Road - UK News In Pictures/Stuart Vaizey
Emergency services - UK News In Pictures/Stuart Vaizey
Emergency services - UK News In Pictures/Stuart Vaizey

A number of terraced houses on the street have been evacuated as police, fire, and ambulance staff carry out searches and attempt to make the structure safe.

Work is also under way to isolate the gas and electric in the area.

A Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "Two casualties were treated by South Central Ambulance Service paramedics before they were taken on to hospital.

"A number of houses were evacuated and the road was closed as a cordon was put in place.

"The incident was handed over to Hampshire Constabulary and Portsmouth City Council engineers as utility companies worked to isolate the power and gas supply."

A Hampshire Police spokesman said: "We are assisting our colleagues at Portsmouth City Council with the road closure so they can evacuate nearby houses."