Mother and Son Rushed to Hospital After Suspected Gas Explosion in Portsmouth
Serious Injuries Following Sudden Blast
A man and his elderly mother were seriously injured after a suspected gas explosion tore through their home on Nelson Avenue, Portsmouth, shortly after 1:40pm on 22 October. Both were rushed straight to Southampton General Hospital for emergency treatment.
Firefighters and Emergency Crews Rush to Scene
More than 20 firefighters from Cosham, Portchester, Southsea, Havant, and Emsworth quickly arrived after reports of the explosion. Neighbours fled their homes in shock as they heard a loud bang, smashing glass, and saw thick smoke billowing from the property’s front.
A witness described hearing an elderly woman screaming in the street, her hair “burnt right down to the skin.” The man who emerged after her also had severe burns to his head.
Smoke Darkens City Skies, Emergency Services Respond
Smoke plumes drifted east across Portsmouth, including London Road, causing poor visibility for drivers. The haze was visible for miles. South Central Ambulance Service dispatched their Hazardous Area Response Team alongside four ambulance officers, two crews, and the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.
The air ambulance landed nearby at Mountbatten Leisure Centre, administering critical life-saving care before the casualties were transferred by land ambulance to hospital.
SGN and Fire Service Launch Full Investigation
SGN, the gas emergency service, confirmed they responded at around 2pm to assist emergency teams and help secure the area. Their engineers are working closely with fire crews, Hampshire Police, power companies, and local authorities to ensure safety.
Firefighters remain at the scene dampening the site as a full investigation into the cause of the explosion continues.
