Crime & Safety

Edison Transformer Fire Causes Traffic Nightmare, Power Outages

Power is restored, but it was a headache on Route 1 yesterday, as nearby residents spent hours in the dark.

A transformer fire on Route 1 near Pierson Avenue in Edison caused a power outage yesterday to almost 10,000 homes in the area, including Woodbridge. 

An explosion at the unmanned substation was brought under control and power restored by 10:30 pm, according to a report by CBS news.

PSE&G had technicians working to restore power to the vicinity, a utility spokesman said. Hardest hit by the power loss was nearby Metuchen. The Star Ledger reported that Metuchen officials confirmed almost the entire borough had lost power due to the transformer explosion.

Find out what's happening in Woodbridgewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Meanwhile, the fire caused the closure of Route 1 and massive traffic backups during rush hour at nearby Route 287, which intersects the roadway near Pierson Avenue.

Black clouds of smoke and the arcing fire from the transformer could be seem for miles around.

Find out what's happening in Woodbridgewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

No injuries were reported from the blaze.


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