Gas leak causes evacuations in Waupun

A broken gas line and a measuring device in Waupun caused the evacuation of several houses and shops on Friday evening, March 14, 2025.

At 9:19 p.m., the Waupun fire brigade responded to the report of a gas smell in 320 E. Main Street. On arrival, firefighters found that a gas line and a measuring device had been shot down on the floor, which led to gas leaks.

Firefighters initiated precautions to evacuate all buildings on the north side of the 300 block of E. Main Street. In addition, the E. Main Street and Madison Street N. Madison were temporarily closed to ensure public security.

Alliant Energy's crews arrived at the scene and were able to control the gas leaf within 30 minutes. In addition to the Alliant Energy staff, the fire brigade staff worked together to inspect the affected buildings and to ensure that it was safe for the re-entry.

At 11:15 p.m. all evacuated were allowed to return to their apartments and shops. A total of 20 people were evacuated, and 20 properties had faults from Gasservice. Alliant Energy will be on site again this morning to continue repairs and work with real estate owners, to reorganize the pilot lights.