FLATIRON — A manhole fire broke out on 14th Street Thursday afternoon, forcing several buildings to be evacuated.
The blaze started in front of 47 W. 14th St. between Fifth and Sixth avenues about 1:30 p.m., the FDNY said. Increased carbon monoxide levels were recorded in both 45 and 47 W. 14th St.
Several buildings on the block, including 47 and 45 14th St. were evacuated, but there were no reported injuries.
The fire was under control and carbon monoxide levels were starting to drop by 2:45 p.m., fire officials said.
"I think that manhole had been acting up for a while," said Lloyed Rosenberg, who works in one of the buildings that was evacuated. "ConEd was here just this morning taking a look at it."
"It's frustrating to be out in the cold, he added. "But it is what it is."
