Every few years, it seems, this story recurs. Manhole covers get launched, smoke gushes out.

"Investigators were working late Wednesday night to determine what caused a series of manhole explosions in Detroit's Greektown entertainment district, sparking an evacuation and filling the streets with acrid smoke.

"No injuries were reported in the incident centered by the Atheneum Hotel and Fishbone's Restaurant...

"...Edmonds went outside. Then she felt a second explosion and saw flames shoot out of a manhole in the street. A third explosion followed. The hotel lobby filled with smoke.

"At Fishbone's, lights started blinking and a recorded voice announced a fire and evacuation. After the second explosion the diners started scattering. A third explosion was not as loud.

"At Redsmoke BBQ, a police officer announced that manhole covers were exploding and emitting toxic fumes. Diners were ordered to stay indoors.

"Several dozen people, some carrying luggage, sat and stood outside the Atheneum at Lafayette and Brush. At least two blocks of Monroe, Greektown's main strip, were being evacuated. A foul odor hung in the air."

Full Freep Article here