DURHAM, N.C. — A massive water main break caused significant disruptions on Ellis Road in Durham early Monday morning, sending a powerful jet of water into the air and drenching passing vehicles during the start of the morning commute.
The rupture occurred in the vicinity of East Pettigrew Street. Local residents first alerted WRAL News to the situation at approximately 5:30 a.m., describing a high-pressure geyser erupting from the ground. By the time news crews arrived on the scene, the pressure was strong enough to create a literal fountain, with water spraying high above the roadway.
Traffic in the area was complicated as unsuspecting drivers attempted to navigate the flooded thoroughfare. Commuters were forced to drive through the deluge, with many vehicles receiving a drenching as they passed directly under the heavy spray. Local police were quickly dispatched to the area to manage traffic flow and ensure public safety while the situation remained volatile.
For roughly an hour, the water continued to blast into the air, creating slick conditions and significant pooling on the asphalt. Utility crews worked urgently to locate the source of the rupture and shut off the main. Their efforts were successful at approximately 6:30 a.m., when the flow of water was finally brought under control and the geyser ceased.
While the immediate threat of the spray has been neutralized, the aftermath of the break remains the primary focus for city officials. City maintenance teams are currently on-site assessing the damage to the infrastructure and evaluating the impact on the surrounding roadway.
At this time, it remains unclear how many residents or local businesses are experiencing water outages or low water pressure as a result of the main being shut off. City officials have not yet issued a formal statement regarding the timeline for repairs or whether any long-term road closures will be necessary as crews begin the process of excavating and replacing the damaged pipe.
Motorists are encouraged to avoid the area of Ellis Road near East Pettigrew Street if possible, as crews continue to work in the street and the road surface may require inspection for erosion or damage caused by the force of the water.
WRAL News is monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates regarding service disruptions and traffic detours as more information becomes available from the city of Durham’s water department. Residents who believe they have been affected by the break or who notice discolored water are advised to follow official guidance from the city as the system stabilizes.
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