Providence Fire Department says electrical fire caused manhole explosion

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Providence Fire Department said that it responded to Clemence Street and Washington Street for reports of an explosion Wednesday.

At 2 p.m. firefighters on the scene determined a “small underground electrical fire” caused a manhole to dislodge.

A parking attendant in the area said the explosion felt like a lightning strike.

Surveillance footage of the blast showed a man appearing to take a picture of a mural just before the manhole cover was launched into the air behind him.

At 2pm today, members of the PFD responded to Clemence and Washington Streets for a reported explosion. FF’s determined a small underground electrical fire, causing a manhole to dislodge. There is no immediate danger or threat to the public. This will be turned over to RI Energy.

— Providence Fire Department (@PVDFireDept) September 25, 2024

There was no immediate danger and the scene was turned over to Rhode Island Energy.