Aftermath of Springfield gas explosion

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - On Saturday morning, the aftermath from Friday night's gas explosion in Springfield became more clear.

• Photos: Gas Explosion Aftermath

The blast completely leveled the now-former " SCORES" club, and damaged dozens of other buildings. Several blocks of Worthington Street are a complete mess; broken glass and bricks are blocking parts of the street and are even seen scattered blocks away. Residents are describing the downtown area as a war zone.

The explosion also blew out windows of residential buildings in the surrounding area. Springfield's Code Enforcement Commissioner, Steven Desilets, said that 40 units will have to be condemned and that number is expected to increase.

The focus Saturday morning will be to assess the damage area. Code Enforcement Officials put together five teams to do this--they're all made up of building, plumbing, electrical and housing inspectors.

The city will be monitoring two phone lines for those residents concerned about the damage. You can reach the Springfield Housing Division at (413) 787-6731 or (413) 787-6732.

Meantime, Mayor Domenic Sarno has said that he does not want anybody coming close to the damaged areas. The Springfield Police Department has stepped-up anti-looting patrols since Friday night. Fifteen extra officers have been placed in and around Worthington Street both in police cars and on foot. But according to Sgt. Ken Turowski, there have been no reports of looting from the overnight.

22News will continue to follow the very latest on the aftermath. Make sure to stay with us both on-air and online at WWLP.com.