The explosion blew a manhole cover into the air and buckled part of the road on the on ramp leading to McGrath Highway, by Cross Street.
Police in Somerville, Massachusetts, were on the scene of a manhole explosion early Thursday morning.
The Somerville Police Department said it had officers responding to the incident in the area of McGrath Highway.
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The explosion blew a manhole cover into the air and buckled part of the road on the on ramp leading to McGrath Highway, by Cross Street.
The force of the blast blew in at least three windows at a nearby apartment building, and shook the building so hard, a first-floor door came off the door frame.
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One man who lives in a second-floor apartment in the area said he was asleep when he heard a loud “boom” – his picture frames fell off the walls, and two of his windows were shattered.
He jumped out of bed, and ran out of the building for safety.
The building’s owner and other residents said they’re just so thankful someone wasn’t hurt or killed when this manhole cover blew and the street around it caved in.
“I was sleeping when I heard the big blow," Jill Norberto said. "Everyone in the building, everyone was running, I didn’t have time to get anything I just got out on the street with my pajamas.”
In a statement, an Eversource spokesperson said 1500 customers lost power.
“Our system operators used remote switching capabilities and have since restored power to all customers," the statement said. "We will remain on scene to inspect our underground equipment and assess any damage, and will make any necessary repairs to the electric system.”
As work continued in the area, the onramp to McGrath Highway and some surrounding streets remained closed throughout the morning, snarling traffic. It was unclear how long traffic would be impacted in the area.
