Three people have been taken to hospital and one is missing after a suspected gas explosion at a house in Swansea.

Emergency services are on the scene following the major incident at 11.20am on Monday on the junction of Field Close and Clydach Road in the suburb of Morriston.

Pictures on social media show several houses badly damaged with some reduced to rubble.

Two properties have been extensively damaged and other neighbouring properties have also been impacted, police said.

Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart said his “thoughts are with the residents” following the incident.

He said: “My thoughts are with the residents at this moment from what looks like an extremely serious incident, as we try and establish if everyone is safe. Our teams are onsite and working with the emergency services.”

He later added: “Just been to visit residents. Still awaiting confirmation that everyone is accounted for and safe. Local centre set up and teams are supporting residents until its safe to go home. Thoughts and prayer that everyone is safe.”

A spokesperson for South Wales Police said: “Three people have been taken to hospital by ambulance. One person is currently unaccounted for and work is ongoing to locate them,” a police spokeswoman said.

“Two properties have been extensively damaged and other neighbouring properties have also been damaged.

“A rest centre has been set up by the local authority to support those affected. This is an ongoing incident, so more detail will be provided when we have a clearer picture.

“A cordon remains in place and people are asked to avoid the area while the incident is ongoing. Clydach Road remains closed and traffic is being diverted.

“Our thoughts are with everyone who have been affected by this morning’s incident and we would like to thank the community for their support whilst this incident is ongoing.”

A spokesperson for the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “As well as Fire and Rescue Service Crews, South Wales Police and the Welsh Ambulance Service are in attendance.

“South Wales Police have declared a major incident.”

A spokesperson for Wales & West Utilities said the firm was working with emergency services to make the area safe.

“We do not yet know the cause of the explosion and our engineers will continue to support the emergency services as they carry out their work”, the spokesperson added.

Source: Standard.co.uk