A large fire was burning near Hayward and Interstate Highway 238 Thursday morning following an explosion.

The fire was burning multiple structures on East Lewelling Boulevard just west of Mission Boulevard and south of Highway 238 in the unincorporated community of Ashland. The area has a mix of commercial and residential structures, including single-family homes.

A view from above the fire showed widespread debris scattered around the fire area. The structures burning appear to be contained on the same lot of 867 E. Lewelling Boulevard, listed on Redfin as a four-bedroom, 3,957 square-foot home.

Security camera video from across the street showed construction vehicles in front of the address as a large explosion destroyed much of the structure.

The Alameda County Fire Department said the explosion happened at about 9:38 a.m. and at least six patients had been taken to nearby hospitals. 

Eight engines and two ladder trucks responded to the three-alarm fire, said Fire Department spokesperson Cheryl Hurd.

The California Highway Patrol said southbound Highway 238 to East 14th Street and Lewelling Boulevard from Mission to Paradise boulevards were shut down due to the fire, and people were being urged to avoid the area. The estimated time of reopening was not known.  

This is a breaking news update. More information to be added as available.