Local Fire Responds To Salem Explosions

Shortly before 10:45 p.m. Saturday night, Salem was rocked by two large explosions in the area of Essex Street. The explosions were reportedly felt in Marblehead, Peabody and Danvers. 

Marblehead Police and Fire responded to the scene to help control the crowds. Emergency officials evacuated residents of Essex, Washington and Crombie streets while other officials cleared pedestrians and cars from the area.

Police told those on the street to stay off of manhole covers and get indoors. 

It is believed the cause of the explosions were electrical in nature and took place underground. National Grid was on the scene minutes after the explosions. 

Several cars had major damage to them from the explosions and several windows were blown out. Bricks could be seen strew across the sidewalk Sunday morning.

Shortly after midnight, residents were allowed to return to their homes but power remains off after that.