Con Edison: Queens Manhole Fire Likely Caused By Winter Weather Conditions

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Winter weather conditions are likely to blame for a manhole fire in Queens.

A manhole cover popped right off as thick black smoke burst out of the manhole in Long Island City Sunday morning.

The fire happened at Jackson Avenue and 49th Avenue.

Residents nearby said they felt the explosion.

"I heard a big boom, the whole building shook," said Fazillah Durante.

"I heard the explosion, it shook the whole building around 7:30, 7:40 this morning," said business owner Rebecca Trent.

Con Edison said the fire was likely caused by road salt and melting ice, damaging underground wiring and sparking the fire.