A large explosion has destroyed a townhouse in a complex in Sydney’s west this afternoon.

Emergency crews were called to Waikanda Crescent in Whalan, near Mount Druitt, just before 1pm on Saturday after reports of a loud explosion heard by residents in surrounding streets.

Firefighters rescued two people from the collapsed home, a woman in her 60s and a woman in her 70s who uses a wheelchair.

A search and rescue operation is underway to determine if anyone else is trapped in the rubble.

The large blast, believed to have been caused by gas, blew out windows and damaged neighbouring townhouses in the multi-apartment complex.

More than a dozen fire and recuse units are on scene and residents are urged to avoid the area while the operation is underway.

Loading