Weekend closures in Flatiron

A swath of the Flatiron District will remain closed through the weekend as Con Edison and city officials continue to clean up from Thursday morning’s steampipe explosion that spewed asbestos across Fifth Ave.

Authorities said Friday that Fifth Ave. between 19th and 22nd Sts. will be shut down as Con Edison power washes all the buildings that may have been covered with the hazardous material.

The force of the 6:39 a.m. explosion blew a massive hole in the street, and sent toxic dust flying into the air from the asbestos-lined pipe, which was installed in 1932. Roughly 500 nearby residents were forced out of their homes by the blast, officials said.

About 28 buildings were affected.

Local residents were urged to keep their windows closed and set air conditioners to recirculate indoor air. In addition, those exposed have been asked to leave their contaminated clothing with Con Edison officials at 19th St. and Broadway and 22nd St. and Broadway.

Assistance for displaced residents who want to talk to representatives and seek financial assistance will be available at the Clinton School at 10 E. 15th St.