Massive Water Main Break, Sinkhole Affecting Miami Beach Road and Businesses

Crews on Miami Beach are working to repair an overnight water main break that caused quite the mess.

Officials responded to the scene on 41st Street eastbound near Royal Palm Ave. around 1:30 AM. The break sent water spewing onto the street and even leaking into several businesses in the area. It also caused damage to electrical lines that control the stop light at the intersection.

Police have shut the eastbound road to just one lane and are asking drivers to avoid the area while repairs are being made. Officials said there was a slight delay in response since crews were sent home earlier due to Hurricane Matthew.

"After we're able to make other repairs and get the parts, we can see and find out if it was a eroded pipe or a damaged pipe," said Roy Coley, director of the Miami Beach Public Works infrastructure department. "At this point we don't know."

Currently, 16 homes and businesses do not have running water. Service should return this afternoon, but they will be under a boil water watch for the next 48 hours. It’s unknown how much water came out of the pipe or how long before it will be repaired.

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