Downtown Transformer Explodes

At around 4:30 p.m. today, June 7, a transformer located under the intersection of Gutierrez and Quarantina Streets reportedly exploded, knocking out power to residences and business throughout downtown Santa Barbara. According to initial eyewitness reports, five separate explosions occurred under the roadway, blasting a nearby manhole cover into the air.

There is no word yet if anyone was injured or what the extent of the damage is. Representatives from the city’s police and fire departments could not be reached.

South California Edison is purportedly monitoring the situation and has warned that additional power flickers may occur. Its website indicates that “there is currently a wide spread power outage in this area” and “repair crews have been notified and are aware of the problem.” The Santa Barbara County Office Of Emergency Services recently quoted SCE saying there are “wide spread outage” in the 93101 area, and to be on the lookout for unpowered traffic signals.

Check back later for an update on the situation.