Heavy Snow Causing Gas Leaks

TRUCKEE, Calif. (CBS13) -- Hundreds of homes are without power in the Donner Summit mountain community due to fears that electricity could spark an explosion in leaking propane tanks.

At least seven homes are still evacuated due to the danger from propane gas seeping out of tanks, some of which have been buried under 15 to 20 feet of recent snowfall.

The weight of the snow apparently damaged valves and pipelines, leaving the unmistakably strong odor of gas hanging in the air.

Fire officials say they will need to go door-to-door in affected homes to determine when it will be safe to restore power.

"We have to be able to get into the structure, make sure there are no propane problems," said Truckee Fire Protection District Battalion Chief Gary Botto.

Officials say they are also concerned the cold will turn the propane gas into liquid.

There is no estimate for when utilities will be restored.