Underground electrical transformer explodes on Glenrock
By Daily Bruin Staff
Jan. 13, 2010 7:56 p.m.
The explosion of an underground electrical transformer shook Glenrock Avenue around 8:46 p.m. on Wednesday, causing reverberations that could be heard from multiple streets in the North Village.
The cause of the explosion is unknown, but may be due to a mix of combustible gases. The explosion is currently under investigation by the Department of Water and Power.
There is currently no known danger, but the power will be cut off for several blocks in the area for an estimated two hours as workers repair the site, said Michael Derlighter, a supervisor at the Department of Water and Power.
The transformer was one of four underground transformers that control the power and streetlights in the area, he said.
Glenrock Avenue is currently open to pedestrian traffic, but cars have been blocked from the road.
No bystanders were injured, but one car was damaged by steel doors that flew off the street.
Sahil Shah, a student who was walking in the area at the time of the explosion, said he was thrown back a few feet by the blast.
Shah said he saw a flash of orange erupt from the street, and all the car alarms went off. He immediately called the police, who arrived shortly after and notified students to stay indoors.
Shah said he was shaken up but not harmed.
Compiled by Ravi Doshi, Samantha Schaefer and Carolyn McGough, Bruin senior staff.
