Contamination, 28 Buildings Evacuated, 5 Injured in Steam Explosion in New York City

Shore News Network

NEW YORK CITY-A steam line has exploded in New York City causing evacuations, contamination and injuries in the city’s Flatiron District this afternoon.

“We have 5 minor injuries. A steam line exploded and caused a massive disruption of a gas line, water main, and some electrical power,” The New York City Fire Department said.

There are 28 buildings right now that have been evacuated and will remain that way for a while.

“We’re operating with an abundance of caution since this steam main was installed in 1932, so there is possibly a presence of asbestos,” the Department continued. “Samples have been taken and we’re awaiting the lab results. We are operating as though those samples will come back positive.”


Approximately 100 FDNY members will require decontamination, as well as other members operating here and civilians.

There are 2 decontamination stations set up North and South of the Hot Zone. One is at 22nd St and one at 19th St both on 5th Ave.

Anyone who feels they were affected by this and possibly contaminated can report to one of those locations for evaluation,” says FDNY Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro from the scene of a 3-alarm steam explosion at 141 5th Ave. in Manhattan.

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