Transformer Burns at Indian Point; Cuomo Cites Environmental Risks

"A transformer fire at the Indian Point nuclear power plant in Buchanan, N.Y. sent plumes of black smoke into the air on Saturday and raised concerns that the foam used to extinguish the flames could pose an environmental hazard.

The fire at the plant, located 24 miles from New York City, began around 6 p.m. and was doused by the plant’s sprinkler system. It did not amount to a 'nuclear emergency,' said Jerry Nappi, a spokesman for Entergy, the company that operates Indian Point. No one was injured, he added.

Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo called the fire “a relatively minor situation,” but said the transformer had been 'badly damaged' by the flames."

Liam Stack reports for the New York Times May 9, 2015.

SEE ALSO:

"Indian Point Plans Cleanup After Oil Spills Into Hudson" (Journal News)

"Indian Point Plant Remains Offline After a Fire" (AP)

"After Explosion at Nuclear Plant, Concerns of Environmental Damage" (CNN)

"US Nuclear Plant Explosion: Transformer Failure Caused Fire But No Injuries" (Guardian)

"Transformer Explosion at Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant in Westchester; No Injuries Reported" (NBC 4 New York)

"Explosion Rocks Nuclear Power Plant in New York" (Aljazeera America)