A cloud of smoke is billowing out of the manhole at the northwest corner of 114th Street and Broadway. Firefighters at the scene say it's an electrical fire, so water can't be used to put it out. Witnesses said the fire has been raging for at least half an hour. Shortly after 6 p.m., a loud explosion was heard nearby.
Updated, 7:13 p.m.: According to another police officer on the scene, the electrical fire extended underground from Riverside all the way along 114th St to Broadway. Every manhole cover in the area of the fire was blown from place in explosions. Representatives from ConEd say that they do not yet know what caused the fire. According to a police officer at the scene, there are no reported injuries at this time. More pictures after the jump.
Updated, 6:24 p.m.: A police officer has confirmed that there is another fire on 114 between Broadway and Riverside. The explosions appear to have been caused by manhole covers going up. We're awaiting word on whether this will affect 1 train service.
Update, 6:15 p.m.: Another explosion was heard. A Fire Department spokesperson said that there are no reports of injuries pertaining to the fire in the manhole. Firefighters are evaluating the surrounding buildings to ensure there are no electrical issues and are "waiting on the utility company to come in to control the situation."
Check back for updates. If you have photos or were a witness to either the outbreak of the fire or the explosion, email spectrum@columbiaspectator.com or tweet @CUSpectrum or @CU_Spectator.
