A massive natural gas explosion could be felt from as far away as Hampshire and Worcester County early Friday evening. The explosion sent a huge cloud of smoke into the air.

Witnesses in the area said that they were thrown to the ground, and the owner of a nearby barber shop said that he was thrown across the room.

A total of 16 people have been brought to Baystate Medical Center and Mercy Medical Center, including a Springfield police officer and two firefighters. All of those injured are expected to survive.