Fiery Manhole Explosion Rocks 20th Avenue [Photos]

Dozens of neighbors were temporarily without power yesterday afternoon after a manhole exploded in flames on the corner of 20th Avenue and 72nd Street.

Witnesses say they heard a loud bang and homes in the area vibrated from the blast, which occurred at approximately 4:40pm, according to fire officials.

The blaze, which Con Edison says was caused by defective cable, prompted emergency crews to close down a portion of 20th Avenue for the majority of the afternoon, as fire fighters and emergency vehicles flooded the street. The flames were under control six minutes later, according to the FDNY.

Later that evening, at approximately 8:50pm, a Con Edison team entered the manhole to cut a cable in order and make emergency repairs, leaving 46 residents without electricity for at least an hour, according to a spokesperson from the electric company.

No injuries or property damage were reported.

Neighbors sent us dramatic photos of the explosion: