The Associated Press
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NEW YORK — Fire and emergency crews responded to the scene of a suspected steam explosion near Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan on Wednesday during the evening rush hour, officials said.
The New York Police Department said a steam pipe exploded, and had no immediate detail on possible injuries. The NYPD said it does not appear to be terrorism-related.
Steam shot into the air from a gaping hole in the street near the train station and the Chrysler Building, and the air near the site was filled with debris.
Consolidated Edison said there was an operational problem the area and utility crews were responding, but had no more immediate information.
Thousands of commuters evacuated the train terminal, some at a run, after workers yelled for people to get out of the building.
Witnesses reported that their buildings shook.