Santa Monica transformer explosion fire leaves dozens displaced

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (KABC) -- Dozens were displaced Thursday after a transformer exploded and caused a fire at a Santa Monica apartment building.

The explosion occurred in an alley in the 800 block of 2nd Street around 10:45 p.m.

At least one apartment was destroyed by the fire. One woman suffered smoke inhalation.

Santa Monica Fire Department Deputy Chief Tom Clemo said as many as 50 people were evacuated with between 10 to 20 likely needing alternative housing.

Edison says power should be restored to customers near the area within the next couple of hours.

CNS contributed to this report.