A PG&E transformer explosion and fire knocked out power to 23-hundred customers in North chico today.
It happened around 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, in an underground cement vault on West Lindo Avenue at the Esplanade.
Traffic signals are out along the esplanade from about 11th Avenue to Lassen Avenue, and also on East Avenue between the Esplanade and Highway 99.
Major traffic back-ups are reported, so motorists should avoid the area if at all possible.
Many businesses are also in the black, including gas stations ... that can not pump gas without power.
There is no word yet on when it might be restored.##
