Gas bottle explosion sparks emergency warning in North Geelong

North Geelong residents have been issued a leave immediately warning after several gas bottles exploded on Tuesday afternoon.

Fire Rescue Victoria issued the warning just before 4.20pm, citing multiple explosions at the corner of Thompson Road and Armstrong Street, North Geelong.

Emergency services arrived at the scene after calls to Triple Zero reported explosions and plumes of smoke bellowing from the location.

Crews arrived within five minutes to find a vehicle on the back of a truck on fire, with flames spreading to nearby gas bottles, causing multiple explosions.

People who live in the area and are home are urged to leave immediately.

Fire Rescue Victoria is advising those unable to leave to move away from windows and glass doors and to shelter under sturdy furniture if objects are falling around you.

Residents who are not at home have been told not to return until the warning is lifted.

An air quality warning has also been issued for North Geelong, Bell Park, Bell Post Hill and surrounding suburbs.

The smoke may aggravate existing heart and lung conditions and cause irritated eyes, coughing and wheezing.

Armstrong Creek, Pashley Avenue and Thompson Road between Separation Street and Victor Street has been closed to traffic.

More to come.