HARTFORD– Operations are returning to normal at St. Francis Hospital after firefighters were called on scene following a transformer explosion.
Patients told Fox CT smoke could be seen coming out of the ventilation system.
We’re told the transformer exploded behind the John T. O’Connell Tower on Ashley Street. The building houses the Emergency Department as well as other patient care areas.
After the explosion all emergency ambulances were diverted to Hartford Hospital, and new patients who showed up were sent to other area hospitals. Patients are no longer being sent to other hospitals.
About 30 patients were moved to another area of the building from the ER, the hospital officials told Fox CT.
The transformer was removed and St. Francis was waiting for replacement which may happen as early as Friday. Hospital officials said they have been operating on full power since about 2:30 a.m.
A hospital spokesperson said the incident was handled seamlessly because the hospital prepares for situations like that through drills.
No one was hurt during the incident.
