Hackney explosion: 'Electrical fault' causes flames to burst through manhole covers

'No need to panic but please avoid area,' Hackney Council say

Mare Street has been cordoned off by police and residents have been advised to avoid the area (@chrispaouros/Twitter)

Part of Hackney has been sealed off after reports of two "electrical explosions" underground.

Flames reportedly erupted from manhole covers outside Hackney Town Hall on Mare Street.

A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said they were called to the scene around 9.35am to repots of a loud bang and fire coming from manhole covers.

London Fire Brigade said they were also called to the area at the same time.

A spokeswoman said an "electrical intake box caught fire". One fire engine was on the scene along with the electricity provider.

No injuries have been reported.

Mare Street has been cordoned off and residents have been advised to avoid the area.

"No need to panic but please avoid area," Hackney Council said in a tweet.