Steam Pipe Explosion In Downtown Baltimore: 5 Hospitalized, Fire Chief Says

BALTIMORE, MD — Five people were injured when a steam pipe exploded in downtown Baltimore Tuesday evening, according to the Baltimore City Fire Department.

There was an underground explosion in the area of South Eutaw Street between Lombard and Pratt streets, emergency officials said at 6:15 p.m.

Eutaw, Lombard and Pratt streets were blocked for the investigation, and guests at the Baltimore Inner Harbor Holiday Inn and Marriott Inner Harbor at Camden Yards were advised to shelter in place. Windows and vehicles were reportedly damaged on Eutaw Street from the impact.

The explosion occurred approximately 0.4 mile from the baseball stadium.

The Baltimore Orioles game against the Cleveland Indians started on time at 7:05 p.m., officials said.

Five people were hospitalized with "low-level injuries," Baltimore Fire Chief Niles Ford said at a press conference at approximately 7:45 p.m. He said that the victims were not in vehicles when they sustained their injuries.

The cause of the explosion was under investigation, and Ford said the steam was turned off for the time being.

"I think we really dodged a major catastrophe here," Mayor Catherine Pugh said at the press briefing.

The mayor cautioned citizens that there was temporarily going to be a major sinkhole on Eutaw Street.

"I'm just glad that the citizens of Baltimore are safe, those who are attending our Orioles game are safe..." she said, and first responders were helping to ensure the protection of those in the city.

Photos courtesy of the Baltimore City Fire Department.