Underground fire causes manhole cover explosion in downtown Providence
by: Jusolyn Flower
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Several buildings were evacuated and streets blocked off in downtown Providence Wednesday afternoon after reports of an explosion.
Anthony Knasas told 12 News he was taking a photo of a mural on Clemence Street when a manhole cover erupted just feet behind him, sending flames into the air.
The moment was captured on surveillance footage, which can be viewed in the player above.
“I’ve never been so close to being blown up before,” Knasas said, adding that he didn’t realize the “flame ball” was right next to him.
Rich Schiappa, a security worker in a nearby building, provided the footage to 12 News.
“I thought a bus actually flew into the building or something because it was that crazy. Then I saw people outside just pointing at the sky, and I don’t even know,” Schiappa said.
According to a city spokesperson, the explosion was caused by a “small underground electrical fire” that dislodged a manhole near Washington and Clemence streets. The cause of the fire remains unclear.
The spokesperson confirmed there was no immediate danger to the public, though some buildings were evacuated as a precaution.
While no injuries were reported, witnesses said the explosion rattled windows and flickered lights.
“It was one of those things you don’t expect. You’re just standing there talking, standing here, the windows shaking,” Tim Messier said. “Like a pressure blast. Almost like it shook the windows and everyone came running outside to see what’s going on.”
Rhode Island Energy has since taken over the investigation.
12 News has a crew at the scene gathering information. Check back for updates.