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Grid infrastructureUnited States2018

Transformer fire closes Interstate 495 in Westford

EIR-1231

Provisional entry. A short wire report confirms a transformer fire in Westford that spread to highway wiring and closed both directions of Interstate 495, with no injuries reported; the cause, the exact asset, and any lasting damage are not yet known. Next update: 25 September 2026.

A transformer fire in Westford, Massachusetts, spread to electrical wire on Interstate 495, and state police closed the northbound and southbound lanes. The Westford Fire Department and National Grid responded. No injuries were reported. Traffic was backed up and drivers were told to use other routes. Fire crews were to decide whether poles and wires needed replacing. What started the fire was not reported.

  1. Coordinate promptly with fire services and the grid operator when an electrical fire affects a public highway.
  2. Have clear diversion plans for incidents on major routes.
  3. Check poles and wires before reopening an affected stretch.

Published 2026-09-25. Written from public reporting. Descriptive, not investigative. See the data accuracy disclaimer.

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