- It occurred at East 52nd Street and 2nd Avenue early Wednesday morning
- Third Avenue to Lexington Avenue between 51st and 54th streets were closed
- No injuries were reported
A steam pipe ruptured in Midtown Manhattan in New York City early Wednesday morning, forcing streets to close and officials are now warning residents to shut their windows.
The steam pipe issue occurred near East 52nd Street and 2nd Avenue around 5:30 am, according to the New York City Fire Department.
Emergency crews responded to the scene and capped the steam line around 6:45 am. No injuries were reported.
Many streets on the East side of Manhattan were forced to close, including 3rd Ave, 2nd Ave, 1st Ave, and Lexington Avenue between 54th St. and 51st St.
New York City’s Office of Emergency management reported that Con Edison crews were on sight and that anyone living or working nearby is urged to close all windows.
It remains unclear what caused the leak, but air quality testing is currently underway.
‘The main concern right now is air quality testing. We’ll have those results back later this morning,’ said Zachary Iscol, commissioner of the NYC Emergency Management.’
The energy company Con Edison is advising ‘anyone in the vicinity of East 52nd Street and 2nd Ave to stay clear of the area for safety reasons and to close all windows.’
Meanwhile, northbound busses have been detoured and the Staten Island Ferry is operating on a modified schedule, with service approximately every 20 minutes.
The FDNY announced Wednesday morning: ‘Expect traffic delays, mass transit disruptions, and emergency personnel near E 52nd Street & 2nd Avenue, Manhattan. Please use alternate routes.