Seattle Fire Department responded to a natural gas leak in Ballard earlier this morning after a Seattle Public Utilities crew struck a gas line while installing a water pipe.

Around 10 a.m. SPU crews were digging at the 2000 block of N.W. 64th Street when they noticed the scent of natural gas. They called 911 immediately, and SFD crews responded within minutes.

Four SFD crews searched the area. They knocked on the doors of at least 20 homes in order to evacuate residents and check for leaks. Six residents were asked to leave their homes.

Around noon SFD reported the area to be secure, however there may be an odor in the air outside for at least an hour. SFD asks residents to call 911 immediately if there is a lingering natural gas odor inside their homes.