Detroit Neighborhood Devastated by Massive Water Main Break

DETROIT (AP) — Hundreds of residents are facing weeks away from their homes after a 54-inch water main ruptured in below-freezing temperatures early Monday morning, sending torrents of water rushing through the streets of a densely populated southwest Detroit neighborhood.

The nearly century-old steel pipe burst around 2 a.m. on February 17, creating a substantial crater and causing widespread flooding that forced the evacuation of at least 83 families. “It looked like a white water rafting river. The water was just coming down so fast,” said Claudia Ortiz, a resident of the affected area. “Everybody was so scared. It was just crazy.”

As fire crews responded, some residents were evacuated in rubber rafts and even construction front-loaders. By noon, authorities reported that the flow of water had been halted, but the damage had already been done, with many homes flooded and vehicles trapped in the icy chaos.

City officials confirmed that nearly 400 homes were in the emergency flood zone, with specific reports of damage showing 190 flooded basements and 74 homes left without power or heating facilities. Mayor Mike Duggan stated, “If you don’t have power, you don’t have heat, don’t have water, you do not have to stay in your home. We will get you into a good hotel room.”

Among those affected, Linda Hoskins reported that her home, too, suffered significant damage. “It was just pouring in … like all the way around the house,” she said. “People are going to have problems with their foundations because it was pouring through the walls.”

The Great Lakes Water Authority, which manages southeastern Michigan’s water supply, acknowledged that the broken pipe was installed in 1930. City officials had not yet determined the cause of the rupture. However, the 54-inch diameter pipe is known for its critical role in transporting water from the Detroit River to various neighborhoods.

Efforts are underway to replace a 12-foot section of the broken pipe, which is expected to take at least two weeks, according to authorities. Meanwhile, the city plans to use funds from the water department to cover hotel accommodations and food for displaced residents, as well as repair costs for water heaters and furnaces.

“This is the worst damage we’ve seen from a water main break this winter,” said Gary Brown, director of Detroit’s water department. Residents are urged to file insurance claims as soon as possible, and city officials continue to check on affected households.

As of Wednesday, Ortiz noted the water in her basement had caused extensive damage to her belongings, and she expressed concerns about the implications of losing her heat and utilities. “At least for my heater. Whatever I can get back,” she said. “It’s just going to be hard. Sometimes I think I’m still in shock. I don’t even know if I really feel cold or anything. I’m just scared.”