Transformer explodes at NY power plant, fills sky with blue light

A transformer fire at Con Ed power plant in the New York City borough of Queens led to a unusual blue light lighting up the night sky.

According to the NYPD's 114th Precinct, a transformer explosion occured on Astoria East & North Queens at Con Edison's power plant.

Around 11 p.m., the airport tweeted power was restored in the temrinals with outgoing and incoming flights resuming.

- Residents of northwest Queens reported hearing loud bangs and seeing a very bright blue light flashing on the city's skyline Thursday night.

The issue caused a transmission dip in the area, and Con Edison crews responded with the Fire Department of New York, Con Edison said.

The explosion lit the sky so brightly that it briefly appeared to be daytime in neighborhoods like Astoria and Queens, residents reported.

One Twitter user said: "The Sky in New York City is blue tonight".

All Federal Aviation Authority facilities were on generator power, FAA spokesman Greg Martin said.

Despite a fairly simple explanation for the unusual blue light, many thought that an alien invasion had finally arrived in New York City. Photos and videos posted to social media show that the blue light was visible from parts of Manhattan and even further.

It comes just days after an "explosion" was spotted in the skies above California. Con Edison is investigating the cause of the incident.

In an update about the status of its systems following the explosion, Con Edison said, "All power lines serving the area are in service and the system is stable".

Meanwhile, the power cut hit New York's LaGuardia Airport, which warned travellers to be prepared for delays.