ConEd Transformer Explosion Sends Blue Light Over Queens Sky

QUEENS, NY — A transformer explosion at a Con Edison power plant in Astoria sent a blue light flashing over the sky in Queens Thursday night as residents reported their electricity flickering.

According to the NYPD, the explosion was at a Con Edison power plant in the area of 20th Avenue and 31st Street in Astoria. Residents first reported seeing the blue light around 9:12 p.m.

Con Edison said the explosion was caused by a transmission dip in the area.

The explosion knocked out power at LaGuardia, affecting flight operations at the airport. The FAA instituted a ground stop until 10:30 p.m. and partial flight operations resumed afterwards.

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The power outage also affected service on the 7 train, causing extensive delays in both directions.

"While portions of LaGuardia Airport were temporarily closed due to power outages, full power has been restored and the airport is resuming normal operations with some diversions and cancellations," Gov. Andrew Cuomo said in a statement. "Additionally, power issues on the 7 Train have been resolved and the line is running local service. There are no other significant reported power outages at this time."

The NYPD said to avoid the area of 20th Avenue and 31st Street in Astoria. No injuries were reported and the fire from the explosion was brought under control.

The FDNY said via Twitter that they had received a number of calls for reports of explosions in the Long Island City and Astoria area. Con Edison said it was working with the fire department to respond to the situation.

Patch will update this report as more information is learned. Refresh for updates.

Photo by Sophie Rosenbaum/Associated Press