Water Main Break in Southwest Detroit: What Homeowners Need to Know

Water spraying from a large pipe in the ground

On February 17, 2025, Southwest Detroit residents awoke to an unexpected and unwelcome surprise: a massive water main break. This winter has seen a number of similar incidents across the Detroit metro area, but Monday’s pipe burst is notable for the sheer scale of the damage, the number of homes affected, and the expected time table for repairs.

What Happened with the pipe bursting in Detroit?

In the early hours of Monday morning, a nearly 100-year-old steel pipe burst, sending torrents of water through the 1020 Beard Street neighborhood and stretching toward North Green Street. Roughly five feet of standing water wreaked havoc on vehicles and property in the area, and over 400 homes were in the immediate path of the flooding. Freezing temperatures complicated matters, as this massive displacement of water began to freeze almost instantaneously.

Great Lakes Water Authority crews were able to isolate the flooding and stop the flow of water, and repairs are currently underway to replace the damaged section of pipe.

Who Was Affected by the Pipe Busting in Southwest Detroit?

Currently, over 190 homes in the flood zone have reported standing water in the basement. The flood prompted early morning rescue attempts, with life rafts and other emergency services, but there are no reported fatalities. In total, over 300 people were evacuated from their homes and put up in nearby hotels, with help from city authorities.

In the aftermath, a team of over 80 city officials, community volunteers, and GLWA crews are in the process of inspecting all the affected homes for water and flood damage. Many residents have been advised to boil water, as the city is also testing for potential bacterial contaminants due to the breach.

When Will Repairs Be Completed?

The GLWA currently estimates that it will take about two weeks to finish replacing the 12-foot section of pipe that burst. Full restoration of services and damage mitigation to the affected homes will take longer; as long as six weeks. The icy conditions and harsh winter weather will continue to complicate the repair process.

Who to Contact

Homeowners affected by the water main burst in Detroit can file claims with the city’s Water and Sewerage Department for any repairs not covered by insurance. In the meantime, residents in need of immediate support, such as rides to work or short-term shelter, should call 313-774-5261.

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Conor Battles

Content Writer

Conor is a content writer and SEO coordinator for Groundworks with years of media experience across a variety of channels, including in home services and interior design. He’s passionate about using digital storytelling to help homeowners envision the ideal space for their unique needs. While based in Northeast Ohio, Conor was born and raised in New England and enjoys the outdoors, local music, and old movies.