Breaking: Thick Smoke Envelops Avenue U, Near Bedford Ave

Thick smoke blanketed Avenue U between Bedford Avenue and East 26th Street at approximately 2:30 p.m. today, according to tipster Julian L., who sent in the accompanying photos.

Julian adds that authorities have closed the street to traffic and pedestrians, and that buses are being rerouted on Avenue T and Avenue V.

What’s causing the fire? We haven’t figured that out yet, but Julian notes that power appears to be out on a “few of the streets.” That, and the fact that it looks like it’s coming from the ground suggests it might be a transformer fire.

This is a breaking news story and may contain inaccuracies. We will update it as more information becomes available. If anyone has more information or additional photos, please send them to tips (at) sheepsheadbites (dot) com.