An explosion in Porto Alegre's Historical Center, which resulted in street blockages and electrical outages, was caused by a short circuit in an underground network, according to the energy distributor CEEE Equatorial. The incident occurred at a cable junction and caused air displacement within the gallery, propelling a manhole cover upwards. The area was promptly secured to ensure pedestrian safety, and the electricity supply was rerouted to another feeder during the resolution of the situation.

Eyewitness accounts described the explosive event as alarming, with many pedestrians in the area expressing fear. In response, several local businesses temporarily closed their doors due to safety concerns. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the explosion, which prompted a rapid response from local emergency services, including the Fire Department and city officials.

The incident raises questions about the safety of the city's underground infrastructure and the potential for future occurrences of similar events. Authorities are likely to conduct a thorough investigation to evaluate the condition of the underground network and implement necessary safety measures to prevent such dangers in busy urban areas. This explosion highlights the need for regular maintenance and monitoring of critical city infrastructure to protect residents and visitors alike.