Transformer explosion injures 5 DWP workers in Hollywood Hills 

Five Los Angeles Department of Water and Power workers were injured Thursday when an underground transformer vault exploded near the Hollywood Hills.

The transformer explosion occurred about 2 p.m. in the area of Barham Boulevard and Forest Lawn Drive, near the Universal Studios backlot, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power reported.

The DWP power workers, all men, were taken to a hospital in fair condition with a combination of burns and smoke inhalation injuries, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department and DWP. Two of the men suffered minor injuries, while the three others suffered smoke inhalation, the LAFD reported.

According to the DWP, all were alert when they were taken from the scene.

The utility reported that 17 commercial power customers in the area lost power following the blast.

DWP crews were investigating the cause of the explosion and conducting repairs to the damaged vault.