What happened

An underground Entergy distribution transformer exploded and burned near Conti and Bourbon streets during Fourth of July celebrations, sending smoke through the French Quarter. Police evacuated nearby businesses and at least one hotel, and Entergy cut power while firefighters made the area safe. Roughly 900 customers lost electricity; service was restored after crews isolated and repaired the affected underground equipment. Entergy's later inspection could not establish a definitive cause because of the fire damage. This was a local equipment failure, not sabotage.

When cited sources give different casualty, damage or spill figures for this event, they’re reported side by side above rather than merged into one number. See how confidence levels work.