CENTER CITY

Carbon Monoxide Detected in Buildings After Underground Explosions in Center City

Firefighters evacuated several buildings due to high levels of Carbon Monoxide after two underground explosions in Center City Sunday afternoon.

The explosions occurred underneath a manhole on the 1500 block of Locust Street, sending thick black smoke into the air. Witnesses reported hearing loud booms underground. Another witness told NBC10 she saw flames briefly shoot up from the manhole.

CO was then detected inside the buildings on 1516, 1518 and 1520 Locust Street by responding firefighters.

"Smoke pushing out of it, which affected 1520 Locust Street, causing high levels of CO," said Philadelphia Fire Department Battalion Chief Joe Andrews. "There were only building contractors in the building at the time working." 

All three buildings and two other properties, including a bar on 1511 Locust Street, were evacuated.

A staging area was established on 16th and Locust streets. The Bomb Squad was called to the scene to investigate.

"We've checked various buildings in the vicinity of Locust Street for any additional readings of carbon monoxide," Andrews said. "But at this time we're looking pretty good. Negative readings."

PECO told NBC10 an underground fire in one of their cables caused the blast and they're using cameras to inspect the damage.

Officials also told NBC10 melting snow may have caused water to leak inside the casing that holds electrical cables.

"The recent cold weather and melt today could be affecting electrical, water and gas services," Andrews said.

No injuries have been reported and officials don't believe the explosions were suspicious.

The 1500 block of Locust Street will remain closed overnight as officials make repairs. Officials also turned off the power to one of the evacuated buildings.

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