Explosion that opened a crater on Rua da Consolação was caused by the accumulation of flammable gases inside a gallery, says Enel
The explosion on Rua da Consolação in São Paulo was attributed to flammable gas accumulation in a subterranean gallery, with the exact source still unidentified, according to Enel.
On Tuesday morning, Enel Distribuição São Paulo reported that the explosion on Rua da Consolação, which resulted in a significant crater in the asphalt, was due to the accumulation of flammable gases within an underground gallery. While the company has confirmed the cause of the explosion, the exact origin of these flammable gases is still unknown. The blast occurred on Sunday night and prompted a swift response from authorities and the utility company.
Approximately 30 hours after the incident, all three lanes of the road were reopened to traffic. Enel reported that the hole began to be filled overnight into Tuesday, with asphalt repairs completed in the early hours of the day. They assured the public that no significant risks remained in the area after measurements indicated safety, allowing for the successful sealing of the crater.
Enel is continuing its investigation into the incident and will closely monitor the site. The company clarified that the underground electrical network was not damaged during the explosion, as there were only power cables present, with no transformers or other equipment in the vicinity. Security camera footage captured the moment of the explosion, indicating the severity of the incident while also emphasizing the lack of immediate danger to surrounding structures.