Pocono News Section

Wilkes-Barre Electrical Explosion

Wilkes-Barre Electrical Explosion - Sunday, March 28, 2010 at 04:08AM EST

Reported by: Mike Trim
Sunday March 28 2010
An underground explosion sends a utility worker through a sidewalk grate in Wilkes-Barre . It happened just after 4 Sunday morning on Union Street . The explosion knocked out power to much of the east part of the city. Power was still out Sunday morning, leaving businesses like S and W restaurant empty. Ernie Schmid of S & W Restaurant said, "It could be worse. There's floods, fires but not being able to open is not a good thing. I have a lot of customers that are angry." The explosion knocked out power to more than 1,200 homes, including most of King's College. The PPL worker is recovering in Lehigh Valley Hospital 's burn unit. A co-worker was also injured near the fire but was treated and released. PPL isn't sure what caused the accident but says it will start a thorough investigation.