Manhole fires on Newbury Street prompt evacuations

Local News

Sidewalks were evacuated from Gloucester Street to Dartmouth Street, as were four buildings, the fire department said, after six manholes exploded.

“Multiple” manhole explosions caused street closures and building evacuations on Newbury Street in downtown Boston Tuesday night, fire officials said.

The Boston Police Department and the Boston Fire Department responded to reports of multiple manhole fires on Newbury Street and Dartmouth Street, BPD said.

Sidewalks were evacuated from Gloucester Street to Dartmouth Street, as were four buildings, the fire department said. 

The fires appear to be caused by an electrical issue, WCVB reported.

WCVB reported that the following streets were closed Tuesday night:

• Newbury Street between Exeter Street and Clarendon Street
• Dartmouth Street between Boylston Street and Commonwealth Avenue
• Exeter Street between Boylston Street and Commonwealth Avenue
• The intersection of Newbury Street and Dartmouth Street

There were no reported injuries, according to the fire department.