LOWELL, MASS. (WHDH) - A transformer burst into flames in a Lowell parking lot Monday afternoon, officials said.
At around 2:30 p.m., SKY7-HD spotted the flaming transformer on Warren Street and the thick, black plumes of smoke pouring into the air.
Employees in nearby office buildings said they saw lights flickering and heard two explosions before they looked out the window and saw the transformer on fire. Smoke was also spotted coming out of nearby manholes, and crews were concerned that they were also on fire at one point.
“We were all in our offices, lights were flickering like there were strobe lights going on, so I came out in the hall and investigated, and heard an explosion,” said Leo Falardeau, who works nearby. “I ran across the hall to this window right here, saw the flames jetting out the unit, and then another explosion. Both doors blew open. That’s when I hit the call station.”
Local buildings were evacuated and firefighters quickly sprayed chemicals on the fire to extinguish the flames.
“We used several dry chemical extinguishers, and they came with a potassium grenade and used that to put out the fire,” said Lowell Fire Department Deputy Chief Frank Kelly.
No injuries were reported, officials confirmed.
“I came outside and just saw the transformer thing smoking and popping and just made sure we got everybody out of the building,” said Nia Low.
Power was still out in the area as of 4 p.m. and the cause of the fire was still under investigation.
This is a developing news story; stay with 7NEWS on-air and online for the latest details.
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