15M Of Gallons Water Flood Center City Philly After Main Breaks

PHILADELPHIA – A major water main break in Philadelphia sent between millions of gallons of water into Center City and and caused SEPTA delays Tuesday morning.

The water main break happened early Tuesday right in Center City. Several blocks surrounding Sansom and Juniper streets south of City Hall are closed or have traffic delays, according to information from the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management.

Water Commissioner Debra McCarty said in a press conference Tuesday afternoon that the main dumped somewhere between 14 and 15 million gallons of water in the area of Juniper and Sansom streets at about 4 a.m.

There are residual traffic delays on surrounding streets, and some SEPTA detours are in effect.

"Please avoid area," officials at the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management said via social media.

McCarty said despite Wednesday's holiday, crews will be on scene cleaning up the muddy mess left after waters receded and working to fix the broken main.

According to PECO, just over 200 customers are without power in the area.

McCarty said thsoe who sustained damage at their properties can file a claim by calling the city's Office of Risk Management at (215) 683-1730 or online here.

SEPTA reported delays on the following bus routes: 9,12,21,23,42,45.

Image via Philadelphia OEM