South Pasadena: A significant water main break occurred early Saturday evening at the intersection of Monterey Road and Arroyo Verde Road, causing a major disruption the area. Residents reported experiencing very low water pressure or complete loss of water service.
Tens-of-thousands of gallons of water erupted from beneath the streets over the course of several hours. The location happens to have adequate storm drain runoff; no building flooding was reported.
Initially, South Pasadena Police and South Pasadena Fire crews were on the scene to ensure the hazard was blocked-off until city work crews arrived to assess the situation. Major repair crews will be working through the night.
A sinkhole began to form in the middle of the intersection, adding to the severity of the incident. The South Pasadena Police Department secured the affected streets and rerouted traffic to ensure public safety.
Water surged from under the street and created a flowing stream down the side streets, through some nearby homes and over the metro tracks. Crews from the city’s water department were seen working to shut off the water supply and fully assess the damage.
Residents in the vicinity were advised to conserve water as the repair efforts are expected to continue well into the early morning hours. The cause of the break is still under investigation, though aging infrastructure, combined with recent earthquakes, is suspected to be a contributing factor.
The situation remains fluid, and the South Pasadenan News will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to follow local authorities’ instructions and stay clear of the area until the repairs are complete.
