News Headlines

Water Main Break Closes Street, Neighborhood Without Water Service

Reporter: KAKE News

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

A water main break in south Wichita has left dozens of residents without water service. The break was reported just after 4:30 p.m. at the intersection of Mt. Vernon and Topeka.

Wichita Water Utilities officials say the six-inch water main ruptured under the street just north of the intersection on Topeka. Officials had previously said it was a sewer line break but that was later found to be incorrect.

All through traffic on Topeka is blocked at this time. Residents who live on the street are still allowed to come and go as needed.

Residents on Topeka between Mt. Vernon to Harry currently have reduced water pressure. Once work begins to repair the break, those customers will lose all water service until the repair is complete. That work is expected to begin at approximately 7:15 p.m. and could last late into the night. Officials say service will be restored sometime before morning.

The cause of the break is not known at this time. Officials say heat may be to blame but they will not know for sure until they can dig up the street to see the damage.