'Major' water main break floods I-95, causes problems at VCU Medical Center
By: Will Armbruster
Posted: Jan 08, 2018 02:46 PM EST
Updated: Jan 08, 2018 02:46 PM EST
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A broken water main poured several feet of water onto I-95 in downtown Richmond Monday afternoon and forced VCU Medical Center to cancel some procedures and appointments according to sources in the hospital.
The break caused water to initially flood the northbound lanes under the Broad Street overpass, near mile marker 75, before spilling into the southbound lanes as well.
All northbound lanes and multiple southbound lanes were closed as crews worked to shut off the flow of water.
VDOT traffic cameras captured much of the ordeal and showed vehicles slowly navigating under the overpass as what looked like a waterfall poured from above.
PHOTOS: Broken water main floods I-95
(Photo courtesy Kia Hobbs)
(Photo courtesy VDOT)
A spokesperson for the City of Richmond's Department of Public Utilities said a 12-foot section of a 12-inch-thick water line blew out, which caused water to spill onto the interstate.
At one point, Virginia State Police reported 'at least' 3-5 feet of standing water across all travel lanes before the line was shut off.
Later that afternoon, City crews responded to another water main break on the South Sheppard overpass which runs over the Downtown Expressway.
Crews were working overnight to repair the main. Traffic was not impacted, but VDOT crews warn drivers to be alert for icy and slick road conditions as temperatures warm up above freezing.
This could also lead to more call for water main break repairs.
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