Multiple firefighters injured in downtown Los Angeles explosion

LOS ANGELES - Multiple firefighters were injured by an explosion in downtown Los Angeles Saturday evening, leaving several buildings on fire, the Los Angeles Fire Department said.

The department said on Twitter that about 10 firefighters were down after the explosion.

The fire inside a one-story commercial building was reported at 6:26 p.m. local time (0126 GMT on Sunday), according to the department.

"Over 230 firefighters are responding. Firefighters have moved to a defensive posture for fire attack, and a medical branch has been created for treating and transporting injured firefighters," it said in a fire update later.

Local television showed flames raging and black smoke billowing into the sky.

The conditions of the injured firefighters are still unknown.

"My thoughts are with our brave @LAFD firefighters. Closely tracking this situation as we continue to get more information," Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti tweeted.