Gas line bursts into huge fire near Great Lakes Crossing

ORION TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WJBK) - Authorities are working to determine what caused a large gas line explosion Monday night in Orion Township. The explosion caused a massive fire, prompting evacuations and road closures, and also disrupting 911 phone service to the Oakland County Sheriff's Office. 

The fire started on vacant land around 10 p.m. in the area near Brown and Joclyn roads, across from Great Lake Crossing. People from miles away reported seeing the blaze. The fire eventually burned itself out after the gas flow was cut off.  

As of Tuesday morning, roads are back open and businesses and schools in the area are expected to be open as well. All 911 and non-emergency 10 digit telephone services at the Oakland County Sheriff's Office were also restored in the middle of the night. 

The cause is unknown at this time but a 22-inch diameter steel gas transmission line ruptured, causing the fire. 

Massive explosion, fire on Brown Road in Orion Twp

The blast exposed about 30 feet of the gas line, and also created a crated about 18 feet deep, according to authorities in Oakland County. 

The cause for the line rupture remains under investigation. Gas service to all Oakland County residents was never disrupted. 

Authorities from Oakland County will be on scene Tuesday in the daylight hours. 

No injuries were reported. 

This is a developing story. Stay with FOX 2 for updates.