West 40th Street Is Closed Due to Transformer Fire.

An underground fire caused flames to shoot out of at least two manholes on West 40th Street between 7th Ave and 8th Ave.

Firefighters were called to 218 West 40th Street near Seventh Avenue about 1:40 p.m. where an underground transformer was believed to have burst into flames, causing the manholes to blow off and catch fire in front of the building.

No injuries have been reported.

High levels of carbon monoxide were being investigated by the FDNY in nearby buildings. Buildings affected by the fire were being evacuated as a precaution.

Witnessed reported to CBS 2 feeling the ground rumble when the fire broke out.

A Con Edison spokesman says smoking underground electric cables caused the fire. No power outages have been reported.