A house was torn apart by a huge explosion with shocking pictures showing entire walls destroyed and a bed hanging from the side of the ruined property.
Locals reported the "strong smell of gas" after the scene of destruction in Bude, Cornwall, Wednesday night, Cornwall Live reports.
Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service were called just after 9pm. Fire engines attended the scene along with specialist shoring equipment to help stabilise the two-storey, semi-detached house, which pictures show having been blown wide open.
Furniture inside was hanging from the property.
A fire spokesman said: "On crews arrival they confirmed that there were no casualties trapped within the damaged structure and the incident was sectorised.
"At this time crews are awaiting the arrival of a structural surveyor to assess the stability of the property and for further guidance regarding this incident."
The dramatic blast came as Storm Christoph wreaked havoc across the UK leaving homes underwater and towns draped in snow.
Thousands of people were forced to flee their homes amid widespread flooding overnight and this morning while there are nearly 200 flood warnings in place, four of them severe.
UK weather: Storm Christoph batters and floods Brits as thousands of homes evacuated
The violent storm caused chaos for large parts of the North of England and Wales with people evacuated from their homes.
More than 2,000 properties in Greater Manchester were evacuated. Those told to leave their homes will not be in breach of coronavirus lockdown rules, officials confirmed.
People working to take members of the public to safety are having to contend with heavy snowfall and the logistical problems of rescuing those who are positive for Covid-19.
UK weather: 'Danger to life' flood warnings issued as hundreds evacuated from homes
The Environment Agency said: "If you believe that you are in immediate danger, please call 999.
"If you are asked to leave your home and need to stay with family or friends due to flooding, you will not be in breach of coronavirus laws and no longer action will be taken.
“If you or a family member have been asked to self-isolate due to Covid-19 Government guidance or if you are clinically extremely vulnerable, you will be contacted directly and Covid-secure accommodation will be provided.”
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the government is "totally prepared" for the twin crisis of flooding and the coronavirus pandemic.
The weather is threatening to bring up to 30cm of snow in parts of northern England while many rivers are at "dangerously high levels".
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