(Updated) Fire razes 200 houses in QC

Hundreds of families lost their homes after a fire razed at least 200 houses in a residential area in Quezon City Sunday afternoon. At least one firefighter reportedly sustained injuries while battling the blaze even, according to radio dzBB's Denver Trinidad. The fire started at 3 p.m. and snarled traffic along E. Rodriguez Avenue and forcing passenger jeeps to alter their routes.

A report in GMA News' "24 Oras" said explosions were heard in the area as several stores selling liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) were located there. Commuters had to get off E. Rodriguez Avenue and walk to the area near St. Luke's Medical Center. Several motorists bound for Manila were stuck in traffic as residents who tried to save their belongings clogged the road. The fire occurred hours after fire volunteers held an Olympics-like event in southern Metro Manila to enhance their skills in firefighting. - KBK, GMANews.TV