A significant water main break occurred in Des Moines on Friday afternoon, leading to traffic disruptions and temporary lane closures near Southeast First Street and Indianola Avenue. The intersection was completely closed as crews worked to repair the water main.

According to Des Moines Water Works CEO, Ted Corrigan, the break occurred as a Water Works crew was making a new connection tap for a business under construction in the area. Regrettably, the existing water main split during the tapping process. Corrigan assured that immediate action was taken to address the issue and restore normalcy as quickly as possible.

The incident resulted in water gushing into the Des Moines intersection, leading to flooding and posing further challenges for motorists and pedestrians in the area. Footage from the scene captured the forceful spray of water and the subsequent flood, emphasizing the severity of the situation.

Local authorities, including the Des Moines Police, were present at the scene to ensure the safety of residents and direct traffic away from the affected intersection. Drivers were advised to seek alternative routes or exercise patience due to the lane closures and traffic delays caused by the water main break.

The water main break caused significant inconveniences for the community, and efforts to rectify the issue were being carried out efficiently by the dedicated crews. There was no immediate estimation provided on when the repairs would be completed. However, with the determination exhibited by the workers, it is hoped that normal traffic flow will be restored soon.

Residents and businesses in the surrounding area were advised to stay updated on the situation by downloading the KCCI app, which provides real-time updates on road conditions and closures.

The water main break in Des Moines serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of infrastructure systems and the risks associated with aging water mains. It highlights the importance of proactive maintenance and investment in upgrading infrastructure to prevent such incidents in the future.

City officials and Des Moines Water Works are expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the water main break and take necessary measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.