RCMP say investigators have determined a house fire that closed off a neighbourhood in Langley, B.C., was caused by an explosion.

Two people are in critical condition and several residences were evacuated after an explosion and fire at a house on Friday in the Township of Langley. The blaze broke out shortly before 11 a.m. in the 7300-block of 196th Street and quickly spread to neighbouring houses.

LANGLEY, B.C. — A house fire and possible explosion has closed off a neighbourhood in Langley, B.C. RCMP say the fire was reported on Friday morning, and officers along with firefighters and paramedics responded to the scene in the 7300 block of 196 Street. Police say homes in the surrounding area have since been evacuated.