Video on social media shows water flooding into the area of Park Place Northwest and Hobart Place Northwest
WASHINGTON — Drivers in Northwest D.C. should expect major traffic backups because of a large water main break Thursday morning. The break was reported in the area of Park Place and Hobart Place near McMillan Reservoir. That's not far from Children's National Hospital
One user on social media alerted D.C. Water and D.C. Police about the water main break just before 8 a.m. Phil McNamara posted video of the break on X. "It's really bad," McNamara said.
While as of now, police have not reported any road closures, drivers are reminded to not drive through flooded streets. Turn around, don't drown.
D.C. firefighters were dispatched to an intersection nearby for a water rescue Thursday morning. The person was trapped in their car. They have been brought to safety and are being evaluated by emergency personnel.
Driving safety tips:
If there is flooding, do not drive into a flooded area. You and your vehicle can be swept away quickly if floodwaters rise around your car, so if faced with that situation, abandon your vehicle.
Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars. This can cause loss of control and stalling.
A foot of water will float many vehicles, and two feet of rushing water can carry most vehicles, including SUVs and pickups.
Road beds may be washed out under flood waters, so never drive through a flooded roadway because you do not know the condition of the road under the water.
Hey @dcwater @DCPoliceTraffic you have a major water main break with flooding and major traffic backups at Park Place NW and Hobart Place NW near McMillan reservoir. It’s really bad. See video. pic.twitter.com/IQXBlEvsD1
— Phil McNamara (@philindc) October 24, 2024