Steam Pipe Explosion Shuts Down NYC Midtown Rush Hour

A steam pipe explosion blew up the street at 41 Street and Lexington Avenue at about 6:00 PM Wednesday. Twelve people were discovered to have been injured as a result of the steam and rocks flying out of the ground. The Chrysler building could be seen a short distance from the scene. Rocks, brown mud and steam spewed out of the ground from a hole that took up one third of the street. It looked like a volcano.

People ran from the scene not knowing what had happened yesterday, running for their safety. One man on the 27th floor of a building at the moment that it occurred reported that rocks actually flew into the window. He and his colleagues exited the floor via an elevator. Those who were close to the explosion had mud splashed clothing and muddy shoes. The situation caused panic. A woman who was crossing the street at the very moment, one of 12 victims, lost all of her belongings as the street blew open right in front of her. Another woman lost her shoes as she ran and a man reported jumping over people and losing his just purchesed meal as he ran. The ground and surrounding buildings shook and a loud rumbling could be heard like being right next to a plane taking off.

The injured were laid in the street for a time waiting for assistance. Eventually Lenox Hill ambulances came and carried the injured to Bellevue Hospital. Some folks called home by cell phone to let their family know they were ok. The number 5 and number 7 train services were disrupted. Reports stated that if people could make it to Grand Central Station that the Metro North was still in operation. To get there only one certain hard to reach entrance was available.