Large gas line explodes near Willow River

WILLOW RIVER, Minn. (FOX 9) - There has been a gas line explosion near Willow River, the Pine County Sheriff's Office reports. 

Explosion in Willow River

What we know:

According to the Pine County Sheriff's Office, around 1:45 p.m., there was an explosion in a rural area west of Willow River. 

Several fire and law enforcement agencies responded and learned that a large gas line had exploded. 

Multiple homes were asked to evacuate, authorities said. 

Law enforcement says nothing criminal is suspected, and there were no reported injuries. 

Minnesota Power says the explosion will leave about 500 customers around Willow River and Sturgeon Lake without natural gas, for possibly several days. They are working to restore the pipeline as soon as possible

What we don't know:

Authorities did not say what caused the explosion. 

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.