IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

At least 5 rescued after massive water main break floods Philadelphia neighborhood

The break sent water gushing onto streets and into people’s basements, NBC Philadelphia reported.
Get more newsLiveon

At least five people were rescued from their homes when a Philadelphia neighborhood was heavily flooded Wednesday morning after a massive water main break.

The water appeared to cover about 12 blocks around South 56th Street and Springfield Avenue on the city's southwest side, NBC Philadelphia reported.

Water rushed through the streets and into people's basements. Cars were also partially submerged, according to footage from the scene.

The people who were rescued were led through the water and to SEPTA buses to shield them from the cold, a deputy fire chief on the scene told the news station. Temperatures were in the high 20s.

Multiple blocks in Southwest Philadelphia were heavily flooded Wednesday morning after a water main break.
Multiple blocks in Southwest Philadelphia were heavily flooded Wednesday morning after a water main break.WCAU

A tweet from the Philadelphia Fire Department said "dozens" of firefighters responded along with other agencies at about 6 a.m.

Five buildings had been evacuated, and two people were treated and taken by EMS, according to the department.

The Philadelphia Water Department said the 48-inch water main break was causing reduced water presser in Southwest Philadelphia but since the break was isolated, pressure would soon be restored.