Send this page to someone via email

Toronto Hydro says an underground explosion, resulting in a manhole cover blowing off in downtown Toronto, was the result of wires burning out.

A spokesperson for Toronto Hydro told Global News the wires were directly below the manhole which is why it blew off.

Toronto Fire said they responded to a call around 9:35 a.m. about an explosion in The Esplanade and Church Street area.

Witnesses reported seeing a manhole cover shoot straight up in the air after hearing a loud bang. Brown smoke was also seen coming from the ground.

Toronto police said there are no reported injuries.

Esplanade was closed from Market Street to Church, but the area has since been reopened.

Story continues below advertisement