This is the definition of a localized power outage. One row of buildings has electricity, but right across Broadway, everyone is in the dark. That includes an NYU law school dorm, which houses about 500 students.
This all started around 8 a.m., when a couple of cables sparked and ignited a manhole fire. There was a lot of smoke early this morning, and people could be seen choking on it.
The fire department came and put out the fire. Con Edison crews are on the scene, trying to get things back in order. Even street lights were out.
Since the outages are so localized, it is difficult to estimate the total number of people without power. It appears only about four or five buildings are affected.
Con Ed officials say it will take about four hours to fully restore power.
