Transformer explosions KO power to more than half of New Canaan

New Canaan residents are regaining power in their homes after two transformer issues today.

Connecticut Light & Power shows 294 out of 8,372 customers are without power in New Canaan as of 4 p.m. Earlier today, First Selectman Rob Mallozzi said 4,390 homes were without power.

The Office of Emergency Management said on its Facebook page the CL&P substation on Lakeview Avenue experienced a surge, placing a burden on the remaining utility infrastructure and resulting in an underground transformer fire on Elm Street. Officials shut down Elm Street between South Avenue and Park Street while CL&P works to isolate the problem so that circuits can be turned back on.

Police, fire and CERT volunteers are on scene, and two ambulances are at the corner of Park and Elm as a precaution.

Mallozzi ordered the Emergency Operations Center activated, the EOM said, and Lapham Community Center is open as a cooling center.

Check http://www.newcanaannewsonline.com for updates.