Electrical Substation Catches Fire, Explodes Near H-E-B

SAN ANGELO, TX — An electrical substation across the street from H-E-B on Avenue N caught fire and exploded Thursday afternoon.

The fire occurred about 2 p.m., sending plumes of smoke into the air before it exploded.

Firefighters were unable to immediately extinguish the blaze because it was “highly toxic,” they said.

The substation — which is part of the power grid that changes voltage levels as electricity moves from power plants to homes and businesses — is located next to the Autozone Auto Parts store at 3126 W. Harris Ave.

AEP is reporting 3,164 customers are currently without power.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.