Transformer Blue Explosion Causes Scattered Power Outages in NYC (+Video)
TEHRAN (Tasnim) - The skies above New York City were set ablaze in blue after a transformer explosion at an electrical plant, causing scattered power outages and delaying flights.
The blast prompted a brief fire at a sprawling Con Edison facility in Queens — but no injuries — and a spectacular illumination of the New York skyline that generated a flurry of online commentary, The Washington Post reported.
The explosion impacted subway service in the area and caused a brief ground stop at LaGuardia Airport, which experienced power outages.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo described a “major electrical failure” at the electrical substation along the East River, near the Rikers Island prison complex and across a small bay from LaGuardia.
Power had been largely restored to LaGuardia by 11 p.m. and the airport was resuming normal operations. Travelers were still asked to check with their carriers for updated flight information.
The lights caused a stir on social media as several witnesses posted photographs and videos of a bright, blue flash that filled the night’s sky. The Manhattan skyline and iconic East River bridges were suddenly silhouetted against a backdrop of pulsating light.
