Investigators are still questioning the health risks associated with last night’s steam pipe explosion that sent dust and ash into the air surrounding Grand Central Terminal.

Officials for the city of New York stated that although the air was proven to be clean, asbestos was found in the dust and debris that was hurled into Midtown Manhattan.

Asbestos Scare

The areas surrounding 40 th and 43 rd streets, Vanderbilt and Third Avenue were “frozen” due to the threat of asbestos exposure.

Authorities are allowing those living and working in the area to now go about their daily business; however, they suggest they use caution.

“People inside buildings in the frozen zone should keep windows closed and switch air conditioners to recirculate the air inside instead of drawing air from outside,” says the Office of Emergency Management.

The Department of Emergency Management continues to test for asbestos after finding six of the 10 samples tested contained the carcinogen.

“People who may have come into contact with the debris should take a shower and place their clothes in plastic bags to clean or dispose,” says a statement issued by the Department of Emergency Management.

Cause of the Explosion

The pipes, which were installed in 1924, exploded at 6 p.m. causing an earthquake like reaction to occur in the streets of New York.

“There was cold water getting into the pipe and the cold water sometimes causes these to explode,” claimed the mayor. “ It might have been bursts of cold water from the rain or because of another water main break.”

One woman was killed in the unexpected explosion and at least 44 were hospitalized for minor injuries.

(Source: CNN)

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