Montreal Faces Water Main Break Chaos

Montreal is currently dealing with a huge mess after a major water main break in the Ville-Marie borough. Early Friday morning, water gushed out of a pipe, creating a spectacular fountain that sent water shooting several meters into the air.

The break happened around 6 a.m. at the busy intersection of René-Lévesque Boulevard and De Lorimier Avenue. Within minutes, the streets were flooded, and homeowners were facing the dreadful sight of water rushing into their basements.

Mayor Valerie Plante reported that the city is doing its best to manage the situation. She noted that it would take hours to repair the gigantic pipe, which measures about a meter wide. A boil-water advisory has been put in place for several boroughs including Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve and Riviere-des-Prairies, affecting around 150,000 residents.

As the water started to recede, firefighters worked quickly to evacuate people from their homes. They reported going door-to-door and helping those who needed to relocate to safety. The Red Cross has also stepped in to provide assistance to those displaced.

By about 10 a.m., the massive water geyser was only around six feet high, but many streets remained closed and the flooding had caused significant disruptions. Neighborhoods near Notre-Dame Street and Ste. Catherine Street were particularly affected.

The break triggered a drop in water pressure in the distribution network, leading to the precautionary boil-water advisory. Residents are being advised to boil their water for at least a minute before drinking it.

Chantal Morrisette, who heads the city’s water services, commented on the urgency of shutting off four valves to stop the water completely. Each valve takes about two hours to close, and officials are being cautious to avoid any additional breaks.

With power also cut to around 14,000 customers in the area, public transport is impacted as well. The STM is rerouting bus lines and advises commuters to plan ahead.

As Montreal deals with the aftermath of this water main break, city officials are asking everyone to stay clear of the affected areas until it’s safe to return.