国内英语新闻:1st LD-Writethru: Gas pipeline blast in C. China continues to burn, causing casualties

WUHAN, July 20 (Xinhua) -- A section of natural gas pipeline broke and caught fire in Enshi City, central China's Hubei Province, Wednesday morning, killing two and injuring another seven.

According to rescuers, the pipeline fracture was caused by rain-triggered landslide and the fire will continue for days until the residual gas burns out.

Five houses were burnt and 89 residents from 55 households affected. The blast, which occurred at 6:20 a.m., lasted for about 10 seconds and the tremor was felt more than 10 kilometers away, according to witnesses.

Three people were seriously injured and hospitalized, while four others suffered minor injuries.

The traffic will be resumed by Thursday, deputy mayor of Enshi Peng Biwu said.

Further investigation is underway. Enditem