According to Consolidated Edison, there have been 19 manhole fires and explosions since New Year's Day, making this winter the official exploding manhole season in the city. ConEd spokesman Chris Olert told City Room that salt laid on streets corrodes cables, which can either catch fire or release gas that builds up and sends manhole covers flying. Fortunately they've made efforts to better ventilate the manhole covers. But what can explain all those manhole explosions in April and May? Umm, ghosts?