Three people escaped from their homes which were destroyed after a tree collapsed and a gas main ruptured in Hounslow, this morning.

An elderly woman who was rushed to hospital is reported to be suffering from life changing injuries, while sniffer dogs search for two people who remain unaccounted for.

More than 30 firefighters, and six fire engines, ambulance crews and police have been dealing with the incident, on Steve Biko Way, off the busy Bath Road, since around 7.30am.

Nishant Kumar, who lives about 100m away in Corban Road, said: "I was just about to get out of bed to get ready to go to the office when there was a massive noise, it was like a bomb blast, a really bad one. Then debris landed on my window, it's on my car and in my garden.

"My three year old son was really scared by the sound. There was a bit of smoke and a flame which didn't last long. I know two of the guys by sight, it's just unbelievable."

Paramedics treated three people for burns and an elderly woman remains in hospital, and 12 people were evacuated from surrounding properties. Crews also rescued a dog from one of the houses.

The wrath of storm St Jude is reported to have struck down three houses and severely damaged another two other homes.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "Urban search and rescue crews are working to make the structure safe and ensure any fires are put out. Twelve people were evacuated from surrounding properties as a precaution. Crews have rescued a dog from one of the houses.

"Six fire engines are at the scene with a number of specialist vehicles."The Brigade was called at 0735 and the incident is expected to be protracted."The cause of the fire and explosion is under investigation by the LFB fire investigation unit."

Paramedics from the London Ambulance Service (LAS) were called at around 7.30am to reports of an explosion and sent four ambulance crews, two officers, a responder in a car and a hazardous response team.

A spokeswoman said: "Our staff have treated three patients. One woman was treated for burns before being taken to hospital, and two other patients with minor burns have also now been taken to hospital."We are still at the scene with the other emergency services while the area is made safe."

Update: A rest centre has been opened at Montague Hall in Hounslow for those affected. Hounslow Council said: “We are handling the needs of those affected by the gas explosion and have now evacuated people from the properties."