BRIEFS
Metro
Transformer fire leaves 16 without power
| Mario A. Muñoz/la prensa |
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| Aflame: Unión Fenosa technicians managed to put out the fire that started after lightning struck a transformer undergoing repairs.1125554 |
Lightning struck and ignited a transformer yesterday in the intersection of Avenida Cuba and Avenida 28, leaving 16 customers without electricity.
Unión Fenosa confirmed that the power lines caught fire after lightning hit while crews were working to restore service to the area.
Though an abundance of firefighters arrived on the scene, it was Unión Fenosa technicians who managed to quell the fire.
Gustavo Bernal, president of the Colegio de Ingenieros Eléctricos, Mecánicos e Industriales de Panamá, said he had repeatedly warned of the danger of having an aerial electricity system, which is constantly exposed to inclement weather, birds and low-flying aircraft.
The Fire Department also mentioned that extinguishing fires in above-ground transformers often proves problematic.
Representatives for the power company said service and repairs would be restored by today.
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