If you are hearing loud noises in the RM of Ste Anne this week, there is no need to be alarmed.

TC Energy is just releasing natural gas from selections of pipeline in order to get some work done safely.

The noise created by releasing the natural gas is called a blowdown and occurs when several valves are closed to isolate a section so a special valve can be used for the release.

The natural gas in these sections is compressed at very high pressures ranging between 800 and 1,400 pounds per square inch and makes a loud roaring sound as it rushes through the valve.

As the natural gas rushes through the blowdown valve, a gas plume extends upward of 30 to 60 metres. Similar to air being let out of a tire, the initial rush is most forceful and then it gradually slows down with the entire process lasting up to three hours.

Once maintenance on the pipeline is finished, the air is removed from the pipeline and new gas is sent into it. At this time, the blowdown valve is opened again, the air in the pipeline is purged, and there can be some more noise for a short time.

The maintenance will continue from October 20th until October 25th.