Transformer explosions cut power to hundreds in Andover, Massachusetts

What happened

A series of transformer explosions occurred in the early hours of a Sunday morning along railroad tracks parallel to Lupine Road in Andover, Massachusetts. An initial explosion was followed by three additional loud explosions captured on a nearby business security camera within about one minute. The explosions, which began around 4:44 a.m., knocked out power to more than 230 customers, with thousands affected in total across the town. There were no reported injuries.

Some residents reported damage to household appliances, including at least one refrigerator, in social media posts following the outage. National Grid, the utility serving the area, did not immediately provide comment. The incident occurred in the same week that National Grid officials had appeared before the town's select board to discuss a high rate of power outages in the community.

Contributing factors

Not reported. No official cause had been given by the utility at the time of publication.

Lessons learned

1. Transformer explosions along rail tracks can knock out power to hundreds overnight, so operators should inspect similar equipment in areas already flagged for high outage rates.
2. Explosions in grid transformers can send surges that damage household appliances, so utilities should fit surge protection and advise customers on claims.

More lessons on outages, backup supply and restoration, electrical protection and isolation, from every incident on the register.

Not yet known

• Cause of the transformer explosions
• Model and age of the transformers
• Duration of the power outage
• Cost of repairs and compensation

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Source

web.archive.org