I’ve been keenly interested in this one. My instinct says you’re right, the thoroughness of the devastation was insane. I’ve seen plenty of pics of natural gas explosions and nothing like that. Usually these happen after a crew has been working in the area or the homeowner did something stupid, etc. Whenever a NG boom goes off I always post it on my FB page with “safe efficient natural gas”. I hate it, will never use it, have propane, will gladly pay more.
I have also seen the results of 2 kitchen natural gas explosions. I haven’t seen pictures of this one in NJ but what you describe is off the charts from what I’ve seen. Thank you for bringing this to everyone’s attention.
Both events I’ve seen personally resulted in damaged kitchens, a fire but otherwise a structurally sound home. Much repair needed but primarily fire damage and remodeled kitchens.