BUSHLAND, Texas -- At least three people have been hurt today in a natural gas pipeline explosion near Bushland, about 15 miles west of Amarillo.

The Potter County Sheriff's Department said the predawn blast shook homes and melted window blinds. The fire was contained several hours after it began around 1 a.m.

Chief Deputy Roger Short said the three people who were hurt apparently have burns. They've been transported to a hospital in Amarillo.

Short told The Associated Press that his home is about 20 miles away and he could see the flames from his place.

The cause of the explosion is sought. Crews from El Paso Natural Gas and Atmos Energy were at the scene.

Gas has been shut off to the line and most evacuated residents were being allowed to go home. Short says one house was destroyed and a number were damaged.

Bushland schools were starting one hour late.