Melrose Manhole Explosions 'Not Gas Related,' National Grid Says

MELROSE, MA — The two manhole explosions that shook up Essex Street Friday night were "not gas related," National Grid said Saturday. The company gave no indication of what may have caused the explosions, which it called "isolated."

"We are investigating the cause of this isolated incident, but have no indication this is gas related," spokesperson Darlene Masse said in a statement obtained by WHDH.

No one was injured and no customers were without power, National Grid confirmed. The company is still working to restore the manholes.

Two manhole explosions several yards from one each other blew around 9 p.m. Friday. A few first-floor windows at the Waverly Apartments were blown out. The ground was broken up in front of it, including a destroyed manhole with caution tape around it.

There was another broken-up manhole in front of the Pondview Towers a couple buildings away across the street.

National Grid has been under increasing pressure to come to an agreement with locked out gas workers. Melrose was among several communities that issued a moratorium on non-essential work during the lockout, and the state later issued a moratorium as the Department of Public Utilities investigates the utility company's safety practices.

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