Parts of Louisa are being evacuated after an unknown gas was found in the town’s water supply, according to a Louisa County news release.

Emergency evacuations to aid a gas leak investigation were occurring within a half-mile radius of the Glen Marye Shopping Center in the town of Louisa. Moss-Nuckols Elementary School is being used as an emergency shelter, and buses were being utilized to transport residents who cannot drive.

The Louisa County Water Authority and the town of Louisa issued a “do not use” order Thursday afternoon after an unknown gas was found in the water system. Authorities ask all residents in and around Louisa with service from the water authority to cease cooking, drinking, showering and flushing toilets with the water until further notice. The warning does not apply to those using private wells.

In addition, all Louisa County schools will be closed Friday. The school division said in a news release that county officials will need to shut off the water system at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School to help identify the cause of the contamination.

According to a release from the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office, tested levels do not represent an explosive risk but could present a health hazard.

Emergency personnel and experts are working to identify the gas and its source.

https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/louisa-residents-evacuated-after-gas-leak-contaminates-water-supply/article_89b909aa-f420-11e8-a743-075949748263.html