I have an electrical problem with 1995 Geo Tracker.?

I have had no previous problems of this sort at all with this vehicle before this and no recent maintence was done so im not sure of the cause. I was driving along and I started hearing a clicking noise from my steering column, it sounded almost like this click of a blinker, that rhythm, but not as distinct. shortly after some smoke started coming out right where the steering wheel attaches to the cloumn. I quickly parked and shut off the car. Im at work and havnt been able to take it apart to look at it, but any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!