BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — UPDATE: At 2:00 p.m., the CHP reported that the roads would need to remain closed for 45-60 minutes according to the gas company.

According to reports traffic on Merle Haggard Drive near the airport has been closed as authorities deal with a gas leak.

The California Highway Patrol reports a backhoe struck a gas line in the area of Merle Haggard Drive and Pine Meadow Drive. Authorities have shut down the eastbound lanes of Merle Haggard Drive while crews deal with the gas leak.

This is a developing story. We will have more information as it becomes available.