2019-12-11 12:22 update: 2019-12-16, 12:28
Failure of the heating network in the area of Powsińska St. in Warsaw Photo PAP/Mateusz Marek
A burst heating pipe sent plumes of steam into the freezing-cold air in south Warsaw, halting traffic and trapping hundreds of motorist in their vehicles. The Warsaw mayor has summoned a crisis team to tackle the problem.
Aleksandra Zurada, spokesperson for the heating network operator Veolia Energia Warszawa, told PAP that that the breakdown disrupted heating and hot water supplies across Warsaw.
"For the time being we're not talking about lack of heating supply. So far we know there is disruption, water pressure and temperature may be lower," Zurada said.
Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski has decided to summon a crisis team to deal with the issue as quickly as possible.
The temperature in Warsaw was below 0 degrees Centigrade when the heating pipe burst on Wednesday morning.
About 200 vehicles, including 7 buses, have been trapped in the incident and firemen have helped some 100 motorists, the Fire Brigade said on Twitter.
The hot water created a 600 metre-long pool, the Fire Brigade also said, adding that there have been reports of flooded cellars and garages. (PAP)
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