Transformer explosion in Hackensack sparks car fires, power outage

What happened

A distribution transformer exploded on Prospect Avenue near Berry Street in Hackensack, New Jersey, just before 5 a.m. Residents reported hearing multiple loud explosions. The explosion snapped a utility pole, bringing live power lines down onto the roadway. The downed wires ignited several parked vehicles, with six vehicles fully engulfed in fire and a seventh sustaining minor damage. Fire also spread to nearby trees. The Hackensack Fire Department responded but had to secure the area first due to electrical hazards before extinguishing the vehicle fires.

More than 1,000 customers lost power as a result of the incident. PSE&G utility crews worked to restore power, with many affected buildings relying on generators in the interim. There were no injuries to fire department members or residents. The cause of the transformer failure remains under investigation.

Contributing factors

The transformer explosion caused a utility pole to snap, bringing down live power lines onto the roadway, which then ignited nearby parked vehicles.

Lessons learned

1. A distribution transformer failure can snap a pole and drop live lines onto vehicles, so operators should check pole strength near transformers and mark exclusion zones in response plans.
2. Live lines from a transformer fault can ignite parked cars and trees, so utilities must ensure responders have rapid electrical isolation procedures before fire attack.

More lessons on worker safety and safe systems of work, from every incident on the register.

Not yet known

• Transformer model and age
• Duration of the power outage
• Cost of repairs and vehicle damage

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Source

abc7ny.com