More than 100 homes were left without power after a fire at an electrical substation in Oldham. Locals reported hearing 'loud bangs' and 'explosions' as the fire broke out at the substation on Harewood Drive in Royton.
Fire crews tackle blaze
A video posted to social media showed bright orange flames lapping up inside it and smoke billowing out. The fire service were alerted with two fire engines attending the scene at around 5:10pm this evening (Saturday, September 5). Police were also said to be in attendance.
Firefighters used dry powder extinguishers in order to put out the blaze. No one was injured, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said.
Power cut impact
Scores of locals on the neighbouring Thorp estate say their power cut out following the fire, with lights going out and dozens of house alarms sounding in the area simultaneously.
According to Electricity North West (ENW), at the time of writing, a total of 147 properties were still without power.
The ENW website said: "This power cut has been caused by an unexpected incident on the high voltage cable that provides electricity to your home or business."
"We didn't know before your electricity went off that this was going to happen but now we know, rest assured we will get your power back on safely and as quickly as possible."
Official response
A GMFRS spokesperson said: "Shortly after 5.10pm on Saturday 5 September, two fire engines from Oldham and Chadderton fire stations were called to attend a fire at an electrical substation on Harewood Drive, Royton.
"Crews arrived quickly and extinguished the fire using dry powder extinguishers and a thermal imaging camera.
"Firefighters worked alongside Electricity North West to make the area safe before departing after approximately one hour at the scene."
