A transformer fire at Georgia Power’s Plant Vogtle caused the Atlanta-based utility to declare an “alert” at noon Tuesday, which was terminated shortly after 2:30 p.m. when the fire was extinguished.

“Plant conditions DID NOT threaten public safety,” the company wrote in a news release issued at 3:10 p.m.

The incident affected units 1 and 2 at the nuclear plant south of Augusta, which went into service in the late 1980s. It did not affect the newer units 3 and 4, which began commercial operation last summer and in April, respectively.

Trained personnel are working on recovery efforts in close coordination with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission as well as state and local agencies.

“Georgia Power’s top priority is the safety of the public and employees at the plant,” the utility wrote in the news release. “We are committed to the safe operation of our nuclear facility.”

Nearby residents were advised to stay tuned to their radio and television for the latest updates. Georgia Power announced Information on recovery efforts will be provided as it becomes available.

Capitol Beat is a nonprofit news service operated by the Georgia Press Educational Foundation that provides coverage of state government to newspapers throughout Georgia. For more information visit capitol-beat.org.