Massive water main break causes widespread water outage; 3 rescued after East Loop floods

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HOUSTON — A massive water main break is causing major flooding in east Houston and water pressure problems in several neighborhoods. 

A City of Houston contractor caused the 96-inch water line to burst when soil was moved during work on a city project, according to AlertHouston.

 The northbound and southbound lanes of the East Loop are closed because of high water near Clinton and traffic is backed up for miles. 225 is also shut down.

Many drivers were caught off-guard as the water rose quickly and some were stranded on tops of their cars. The Houston Fire Department rescued three people and searched and cleared 12 vehicles.

RELATED: What schools or businesses are closed or experiencing no water due to the main break?

“This is a cluster, but we will get it worked out,” Sheriff Ed Gonzalez tweeted.

The rushing water is also threatening nearby homes and businesses. 

The eight-foot water main break has left people all over the city without water, including Midtown, Montrose, The Museum District, The Heights, Timbergrove and the Memorial Park area.

Some fire departments and Texas Medical Center facilities are experiencing low or no water pressure.

The University of Houston’s main campus and TSU are closed for the rest of the day because of water issues.

Some businesses, The Houston Zoo and the Museum of Natural Science are also closed. Parts of NRG Park are affected, but it’s not clear if it will impact the BBQ cookoff. 

Early voting locations at HCC Southeast and Young Library are shutting down. Find alternate locations.

“Valve contractors are in the area to isolate the break and make immediate repairs,” HoustonAlert reported. “Once the valves are closed, pressure should be restored.”

The City of Houston is asking all residents to conserve water by turning off sprinklers and delaying laundry and washing cars.

We’re told there are no water problems at Bush and Hobby airports.

If you have questions about the water main break text “Water” to 713-526-1111.

Stay with KHOU.com and our mobile news app for the very latest on this breaking story.  

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