Number of Manhole Explosions in NYC Approaches 4,000

New York – The number of manhole explosions in New York City is almost 4,000, according to a report released as temperatures cool and the 2020 manhole season begins.

Since 2009, there have been 57 fatalities from the nearly 4,000 explosions, which typically hurls iron covers that weigh between 70 and 300 pounds through the air, according to the sturdy conducted by The City news website. Fire Department records show it responded to more than 45,000 emergency manhole incidents, which also include smoke and fire episodes.

Manhole eruptions can also cause significant property damage, building evacuations, power outages and traffic disruptions. It usually occurs during the winter months, when the aging electrical infrastructure mix with rain or snow melt and corrosive salt. The fire department responds to about three explosions each day.
The city has 246,000 manholes and service boxes in its underground system, services by Con Edison. The energy company says that it invests heavily on maintenance, and employs a small army of attorneys to fight off personal injury lawsuits.