Transformer Explosion Closes E. Putnam Avenue [UPDATE]

Update at 6:51 a.m.:

Greenwich Police spokesman Lt. Kraig Gray reports, "Power has been restored in the area particularly at the school. They are going to maintain their regular class schedule. The road is now open."

However, motorists may want to avoid the stretch of East Putnam between Hillside, Overlook and Old Church Road as "there will be one lane closed during an emergency repair to the transformer in that area," Gray said.

Original story:

A power transformer explosion about 6 a.m. Friday caused a live wire to land on East Putnam Avenue near Hillside Road, prompting the closure of the road, according to Greenwich Police.

In a voicemail press release, police spokesman Lt. Kraig Gray said, "there is a live wire down across US 1, East Putnam Avenue, in area of the high school. This has forced a closure of the road between Old Church Road, and Hillside as well as Overlook (Drive)."

According to Gray, there is no power in the area as well as the high school. Connecticut Light & Power crews are on the scene and according to the utility's website, there were 336 customers without power in Greenwich at 6:35 a.m. Gray said it is not known how long repairs will take.

"Apparently a transformer of some sort exploded and the wire came down. There was no accident and nobody was hurt," Gray said.

Gray also said, "The best estimate is it will definitely impact school and the community this morning. Avoid the area."

Greenwich Patch will update this story as more details become available.