Vegas Transformer Fire Sends Flames 90 Feet Up

May 17, 2011
LAS VEGAS -- Firefighters rushed to the Las Vegas Strip just after midnight Sunday following reports of an explosion and fire at the Monte Carlo resort. The explosion of a transformer was located on Frank Sinatra Drive, near CityCenter. Fire officials said when they arrived, the transformer fire had flames 80 to 90 feet high.

LAS VEGAS --

Firefighters rushed to the Las Vegas Strip just after midnight Sunday following reports of an explosion and fire at the Monte Carlo resort.

The explosion of a transformer was located on Frank Sinatra Drive, near CityCenter.

Fire officials said when they arrived, the transformer fire had flames 80 to 90 feet high.

The force of the explosion spread debris throughout the area, triggered power outages and caused north and southbound lanes of Interstate 15 and the Tropicana Avenue onramp to shut down.

Las Vegas Fire and Rescue's hazardous materials team along with Metro police secured a perimeter around the fire.

Fire officials said the blaze was fueled by mineral oil within the transformer and was allowed to burn for around 30 minutes to extinguish itself.

The fire was knocked down at 1:35 a.m. and the roads re-opened.

Officials said there were no injuries, and the cause of the fire was under investigation.

Copyright 2011 by KVVU.com. All rights reserved.This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Firehouse, create an account today!