Manhole Explosions Cause Power Outage in Downtown Salem

Updated 8 p.m.: Further update from National Grid indicates that the power outage was not gas related, but due to a transformer overload. Most power should be restored by 8pm with the balance on between 10 and 12 tonight. Crews have been mobilized and are working hard in very cold conditions to address the circumstances.

Updated 4:40 p.m.: Fire Chief David Cody tells Patch investigators don't have a cause for the explosions yet, but that National Grid gas workers are on scene.

An electrical box behind the Boutique on Front Street had its cover blown off by the explosions. 

Updated 4:25 p.m.: A Patch editor on scene says traffic is tied up through downtown Salem as a result of the street closures. National Grid is on scene investigating. The Fire Department has no immediate information on what happened, but when they do we will bring it to you.

Three manhole covers exploded. There continues to be a lot of activity by workers and public safety officials, especially near Red's.

Updated 4 p.m.: One of the manhole covers reportedly struck a vehicle. Emergency personnel going in and out of Reds Sandwich Shop, according to scanner reports.

Updated 3:50 p.m.:

The city of Salem issued the following statement: 

At approximately 3:10 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 7, several manholes on Central Street exploded.

No one was injured. According to National Grid approximately 300 people have lost power.

Salem Fire Department is on the scene and National Grid is at work to restore power.

At this time, Salem Police have closed Central Street, Charter Street, Lafayette Street from Derby Street to Front Street, and Front Street. These roadways have been closed to vehicles and pedestrians.

Original Post:

We're receiving reports of a widespread power outage in downtown Salem.

The National Grid Power Outage Map above indicates that 310 customers were without power shortly after 3 p.m. 

We will post updates as information is released.

Is your power out? 

Let us know in the comments section below.