Explosion cuts power in Moose Lake

The city of Moose Lake lost power to homes and businesses on Monday during subzero temperatures.

According to information released by city officials, there was an explosion in a regulator at the north substation at 7:20 p.m. The Moose Lake police and fire departments responded.

“The fire was almost out when we got there,” said Moose Lake fire chief Jim Michalski. There were no injuries. He said a regulator across the street from the plant exploded.

A warming shelter was opened at the Moose Lake Community School for those who had lost their source of heat. School buses were available for those who needed transportation to the shelter.

According to a letter to customers, power was restored at 1:45 a.m. and the warming shelter closed. The city’s Water and Light Commission owns a power plant with backup generators to restore power. Customers were asked to use power only for essential devices until repairs were completed.