Authorities in Centreville, Virginia, are continuing efforts to locate the source of a suspected natural gas leak more than 24 hours after a house explosion that injured at least two people and forced dozens of families from their homes.

Officials have not yet identified the exact origin of the leak, prolonging uncertainty in the neighbourhood and preventing displaced residents from returning.

The explosion occurred late Sunday night in the 14300 block of Quail Pond Court, off Buggy Whip Drive, around 9:45 p.m., prompting a large emergency response from Fairfax County Fire and Rescue and utility crews.

Firefighters found the house engulfed in flames, and one occupant escaped with minor injuries.

A neighbour also suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

The blast damaged nearby structures and raised immediate concerns about an active gas leak.

Investigators, including personnel from Washington Gas and the National Transportation Safety Board, have been combing the scene and conducting extensive testing of gas lines that run behind the damaged property.

Fire officials said multiple lines are located in the area, complicating efforts to pinpoint where natural gas may be escaping.

Crews have used sensors and dug test holes while conducting soil and ground-level measurements to track the presence of gas.

As part of the precautionary response, more than fifty homes were deemed unsafe for occupancy, with four considered at immediate risk, prompting widespread evacuations.

Firefighters and utility crews have been going door-to-door to monitor gas levels and ensure resident safety.

Roads near the site remain closed as operations continue and readings are taken around the clock.

County officials have stressed that until the source of the leak is confirmed and addressed, displaced residents will not be allowed to return.

Fire and rescue personnel are maintaining a visible presence in the neighbourhood, and Washington Gas continues excavation efforts to locate and isolate the problematic line.

The National Transportation Safety Board has taken the lead on the investigation into the explosion, given its expertise with pipeline safety and blast incidents.

The agency is expected to provide further details as its review progresses.

In the interim, local authorities remain focused on identifying the gas leak’s source and ensuring public safety in the affected area.

For now, residents and first responders remain on alert as work continues to stabilize conditions, with officials warning that the investigation could take time given the complexities of the underground utility infrastructure.