A broken steam pipe in Manhattan has led authorities to block many streets and avenues in Midtown on Wednesday morning, causing massive traffic delays.
Shortly after 5:30 a.m. on Wednesday, the FDNY said that it got a complaint regarding heavy steam coming from the area. 51st to 54th streets between Lexington and First Avenue remained blocked to vehicles and pedestrians as of 8 a.m., pending the arrival of FDNY firefighters on the spot.
The police stated that Con Edison was at work at East 52nd and Second Avenue when the steam leak occurred.
“Currently, there’s no active condition. We do have a potential asbestos release, so we are working closely with other agencies to ensure the safety of the public and our employees,” Con Ed Vice President of Steam Operations Hugh Grant told reporters.
According to fire department authorities, evacuations were only necessary as a precaution and there have been no recorded injuries.
While FDNY efforts are underway, commuters are advised by New York City Emergency Management to expect traffic interruptions and to think about using alternative routes to avoid the area.
