By Michael Phillips | MDBayNews
FREDERICK, Md. — A loud explosion was heard in downtown Frederick late Monday before widespread power outages swept through the area, prompting a major emergency response from police, fire crews, and utility workers.
According to a public safety alert issued by the Frederick Police Department, the incident involved an underground electrical fire near the intersection of South Market Street and East All Saints Street. Emergency crews were dispatched shortly after reports of the explosion and loss of power.
Witnesses in the downtown area told MDBayNews they heard a sudden “boom” moments before lights went out across multiple blocks. Some residents also reported seeing flames and smoke coming from the street, consistent with an underground electrical or manhole fire.
Police confirmed that power outages are affecting the surrounding downtown area and urged residents and motorists to avoid South Market Street and All Saints Street while crews work to secure the scene and restore service.
“Any intersections with non-functioning traffic signals should be treated as four-way stops,” police said in the alert.
Underground electrical fires typically involve buried power lines, vaults, or transformers and can be dangerous due to the risk of arcing, explosions, and toxic smoke. Such incidents are more common in older, historic downtown areas where electrical infrastructure is decades old and often exposed to water intrusion or corrosion.
Firefighters and utility crews remained on scene Monday night, focusing on stabilizing the underground fire rather than direct flame suppression — a standard approach for electrical infrastructure incidents until power is fully isolated. Officials did not immediately confirm the extent of the damage or how long outages are expected to last.
The affected area sits in the heart of downtown Frederick, near Carroll Creek and several businesses, restaurants, and residential buildings. No injuries were reported as of publication.
Residents are advised to monitor official updates from the Frederick Police Department and local utility providers, including Potomac Edison, for restoration timelines and safety guidance.
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