Local media outlets say the explosions occurred around 1 p.m. Sunday in downtown Newburgh, 60 miles north of New York City.
The force of the blast hurled manhole covers into the air and shattered windows on at least one building. Officials evacuated some downtown residents who were allowed back into their homes later Sunday afternoon.
The Times-Herald Record reports that three city of Newburgh firefighters suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
A spokesman for Central Hudson Gas and Electric says the explosions were caused by a short circuit in the underground electrical system. Utility crews had to restore power to nine buildings.
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