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Transformer explosion knocks down powerlines near I-15 in Idaho Falls

The area of Interstate 15 was closed for several hours as crews worked to remove downed powerlines from the highway, but is now reopened.
Credit: Idaho State Police

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — Idaho State Police (ISP) responded to a transformer explosion on Interstate 15 north of Idaho Falls, near Milepost 119. The explosion occurred early on Tuesday morning.

A transformer is an electrical device that transfers power from an electrical circuit to another, sometimes multiple. When a transformer is loaded with too much electricity at once, an explosion can occur. Transformers are designed to shut down when an energy spike is detected, but it may take too long and result in an explosion.

The area of Interstate 15 was closed for several hours as crews worked to remove downed powerlines from the highway, but is now reopened. Parts of Bonneville and Jefferson counties are still without power, according to ISP.

ISP shared a video of the transformer explosion via Twitter on Tuesday morning.

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