Manhole covers blown off in downtown Durham Tuesday night (WTVD)
Updated 51 mins ago
DURHAM (WTVD) -- Manhole covers were being blown off in downtown Durham late Tuesday night.
Durham Police confirmed an explosion forced some manhole covers to blow.
It happened on East Chapel Hill Street, but multiple nearby streets - North Corcoran Street to Morris Street, West Parrish Street from North Corcoran Street to Market Street and part of Market Street - remained blocked Wednesday morning as authorities investigated.
Durham Deputy Fire Chief Chris Iannuzzi told ABC11 that thunderstorms may have caused an underground transformer fire, which led to the manhole covers exploding.
That fire created pressure, he said, as the space underground is sealed. The gas expanded because of the heat and blew the manhole covers off.
Smoke could be seen billowing from at least one manhole overnight.
No one was hurt in the five block area. Authorities have cordoned the area off.
Durham police and fire units were still at the scene Wednesday morning, along with Duke Energy crews.
Guests at the nearby Marriott Hotel have been advised to stay inside the building where they're safe.
Duke Energy says they are hoping to have everything repaired by noon.