Why do the streets of New York smoke?
As you walk through the streets of New York, you'll certainly notice strange chimneys smoking... Here's the explanation!
The mystery of New York’s smoking streets
- If you’ve visited New York, you’ve probably noticed strange pipes releasing smoke from the streets. But where does it come from? Urban legend has it that the smoke rises from New York’s sewers. That makes no sense—sewers have no reason to smoke unless there’s a fire underground.
- The real explanation for this phenomenon that puzzles visitors is quite different. The smoke actually comes from the heating and cooling system used in southern Manhattan. This system operates up to 96th Street in the Upper West Side and up to 89th Street in the Upper East Side.
The history of New York’s heating system
- New York uses an old steam heating and cooling system that began operating in 1882. Here’s how it works: Con Edison power stations—the local utility company—produce steam and send it through buildings via a network of pipes running under the streets. The steam either heats or cools buildings, or even generates electricity.
- Hospitals also use the steam to sterilize medical equipment, and some museums use it to maintain proper humidity levels in exhibition spaces to protect artworks.
Why does the smoke escape into the street?
- So why does this steam escape outside through these pipes? Con Edison explains that smoke can form when water seeps into a hole made by their workers during maintenance. “Another source of smoke can come from leaks, particularly at pipe connections,” Con Edison notes.
- Small orange and white chimneys are then installed temporarily to prevent pedestrians from being burned by the steam. These chimneys are tall enough so the column of smoke rises high enough not to obstruct drivers’ visibility. Con Edison thinks of everything.
- One more thing: if you spot steam escaping from the street or sidewalk with no protective barrier around it, call Con Edison toll-free at 1-800-752-6633 to report the leak.
Smoking streets of New York on video
When our guides lead guided tours of New York, they enjoy watching these strange smoking streets too. Here’s a video shot in Manhattan.
