Transformer Explosion Leaves Downtown St. Pete Without Power

ST. PETERSBURG, FL -- St. Petersburg Fire Rescue battled an underground fire in the area of Third Street and Central Avenue Monday afternoon. According to the agency, an underground transformer exploded, sparking the blaze.

"There are no reported injuries, however, there is power out within the downtown area," an email from fire rescue to media stated. "Also Duke Energy is on scene and addressing the transformer issue."

Several fire rescue units also completed an elevator rescue at 300 Central Ave., related to the fire. One person was trapped in the elevator when power was lost to the area, the agency reported.

"Duke Energy has advised that the power will be out in the downtown area for approximately 24 hours," fire rescue said Monday evening. "The area effected will be from Central Avenue to 1st Ave., North and from 3rd Street North east to 2nd Street."

By late Monday night, however, officials reported temporary power would likely be restored to downtown businesses by 9 a.m. Tuesday.

No further information is available at this time.

Photo courtesy of St. Petersburg Fire Rescue