Home / Disasters and Accidents / Sunset Strip Flooded by 110-Year-Old Water Main Rupture
Sunset Strip Flooded by 110-Year-Old Water Main Rupture
17 Jul
Summary
- A 36-inch, 110-year-old water main burst early Thursday, flooding Sunset Boulevard.
- Thousands of gallons of water caused sinkholes and forced street closures.
- Residents and businesses are urged to conserve water amid ongoing repairs.
An aging 36-inch steel main, installed 110 years ago, ruptured early Thursday beneath Sunset Boulevard, unleashing thousands of gallons of water. LADWP crews worked to shut off water service to the affected trunk line by 7:30 a.m. local time, isolating a 0.7-mile section.
Crews are currently removing an estimated 195,000 gallons of water to begin securing the rupture and assessing the damage before excavation can commence. The incident has caused significant disruption, including sinkholes and major traffic closures on the Sunset Strip between Larrabee Street and La Cienega Boulevard.
Mayor Karen Bass was on the scene and urged residents to avoid the area and conserve water, as some may experience reduced water pressure. Water service is being maintained through an 8-inch pipe, but LADWP is actively adjusting operations to manage pressure.
Businesses in the vicinity have closed to deal with flood damage, with some unsure of reopening timelines. Several hotels are offering special rates to residents affected by the flooding and potential water loss.
