Transformer Explosion Near The Woodlands Mall Causes Power Outages and Multiple Fires

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- Just before 5:30 PM this evening, emergency dispatchers received multiple 911 calls reporting an explosion and a large cloud of smoke near The Woodlands Mall, along the southbound I-45 feeder road.

Engine 101, Truck 101, and Battalion 101 were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, crews confirmed that a large electrical transformer had exploded, sparking a fire in nearby trees adjacent to the mall entrance from I-45. Firefighters acted swiftly to contain the blaze and, after Entergy confirmed the power had been safely shut off, completed extinguishment operations.

The explosion resulted in power outages affecting areas both north and south of The Woodlands Mall. Multiple elevator rescues were performed by additional fire units in the area as a result of the outage. Entergy crews are actively working to restore power to impacted customers.

Simultaneously, fire crews responded to a separate large grass and woods fire on the east side of I-45, between Tamina Road and Oak Ridge North School Road. Firefighters from Needham Fire & Rescue/Montgomery County ESD #4, Timber Lakes Volunteer Fire Department, South Montgomery County Fire Department, and Spring Fire Department collaborated to bring the fire under control.

No injuries have been reported at this time. The cause of the transformer explosion is under investigation.

Residents are encouraged to avoid the area and follow local fire department updates for the latest information.

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