LAS CRUCES - Authorities responded Saturday afternoon to a report of an explosion on West Hadley Avenue in Las Cruces.

About 4:20 p.m., an explosion was reported at 1760 W. Hadley Ave. A chemical was possibly released, prompting a hazardous materials response.

The Las Cruces Fire Department initiated a hazmat response. Las Cruces police were assisting. New Mexico State Police also were on scene.

LCPD Detective Frank Torres said the explosion of a "barrel/tank" of some sort was reported. But he didn't have information yet about what was in the barrel.

About 6:30 p.m., traffic was flowing in both directions on Hadley Avenue, and no streets appeared to be blocked in the area. Several emergency response vehicles were seen parked adjacent to the warehouse, and a numerous fire and police personnel were walking around the scene.

Authorities didn't provide further information.

Diana Alba Soular may be reached at 575-541-5443, dalba@lcsun-news.com or @AlbaSoular on Twitter.