Weather is believed to be the culprit of an underground transformer explosion in Midtown Manhattan sent sparks flying and smoke billowing from a manhole Wednesday evening.
The manhole fire at Lexington Avenue and East 56th Street knocked out traffic lights in the area, forcing crossing guards to take over traffic direction.
Utility company Con Edison said rain throughout the day has been washing salt into the manholes, shorting out the electrical structures underground.
Manhole fires were a common sight across the city after the blizzard two weeks ago, with some causing power outages.
Con Ed urges people to use common sense to avoid serious injury: Stay back from a smoking manhole and contact Con Ed or FDNY immediately.
