EASTON, Pa. – Vice Mayor Frank J. Pintabone has given an update on the underground fire that occurred in Easton on Thursday afternoon.
According to Pintabones’ post on social media, Easton crews are working diligently to restore power to the 11 metered properties that remain affected.
Some of the affected properties contain multiple residential or commercial units. They are currently evaluating temporary solutions, including running temporary power lines or providing generators where possible, the vice mayor said.
According to the post, the fire chief was on site and had the opportunity to look into both underground vaults from street level.
The damage is extensive, and both vaults are still retaining significant residual heat from the fire, said Pintabone.
Before Met-Ed crews can safely enter the vaults, they must cool to a safe temperature.
An environmental cleanup company is on site to clean the vaults, so Met-Ed personnel can conduct a full damage assessment, according to the post.
Pintabone stated that once the assessment is complete, replacement equipment will be ordered, the damaged equipment will be removed, and repair work will begin.
Pintabone shared his gratitude for the crew involved in the clean-up, including the Met-Ed crew, the Easton Fire Department, and the Easton Police Department.
The city is working on restoring power as quickly as possible, said Pintabone. The vice mayor stated he will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
More information will be available on Frank Pintabone’s Facebook page.