Steam Pipe Explosion Jolts Midtown; One Person Is Confirmed Dead

[ensho]

http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/07/18/buildings-evacuated-after-midtown-explosion/


A steam pipe installed in 1924 ruptured in a thunderous explosion shortly before 6 p.m. today, sending steam, water and debris shooting outward and sending clouds of smoke and dust billowing through Midtown Manhattan at the height of the evening rush. One person died of cardiac arrest, and more than 20 others were injured. The authorities ruled out any criminal activity, saying the explosion was apparently caused by a failure of antiquated infrastructure.

A swath of Midtown near Grand Central Terminal remains cordoned off, as environmental officials, concerned about the possible release of asbestos, conduct air quality tests. Transit disruptions are extensive.

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“If people were exposed to any debris, they should wash with soap and water, they should remove their clothes and put them in a plastic bag,” said Jessica Leighton, a deputy commissioner at the city’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

She said that any health effects of asbestos exposure would not become apparent until the long term.

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a 1924 pipe

[Oceansaway]

1. antiquated infrastructure....nt

[liskddksil]

2. This is from 2007

[Ptah]

3. July 18, 2007

[SidDithers]

4. No current disasters to report on?...nt

Sid

[ensho]

5. how many more 1924 pipes are still in use

in the blink of an eye

[Renew Deal]

6. This is an old story.