News photo by Josh Jambor Local firefighters and police repond to a house explosion in Alpena on Tuesday morning. The explosion happened near the intersection of Clark Street and Merchant Street. The area is currently being evacuated.

ALPENA — Police and fire personnel in Alpena are evacuating the area of Clark Street and Merchant Street on Alpena’s northside after a house exploded.

The blast happened at about 11:30 a.m and was felt and heard in downtown Alpena.

The Alpena News reporter on scene said there is a strung aroma of gas in the air near the home before being forced to evacuate.

It is not known at this time if anyone was in the house at the time of the explosion or what the cause was. Residents are urged to stay away from the area.

Check back for updates.