A water main break in Southwest Miami-Dade caused extensive flooding and road closures yesterday, authorities said. According to WSVN, the incident took place near Southwest 97th Street and 117th Avenue after a private contractor accidentally struck a 16-inch water line while working in the area. Helicopter footage captured by 7Skyforce showed the resultant flooding as crews toiled to control the situation. Crews were able to quickly shut off the water and commenced efforts to repair the damaged line.
In a related report by Local 10 News, the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department dispatched nine trucks to address the damage, which caused significant disruption in the Kendall neighborhood. Jennifer Messemer, a public information officer for the department, confirmed that the flood was triggered when the contractor hit the main line. "Crew members were able to shut off the water and are working to make repairs," Messemer said in a statement obtained by Local 10 News.
Residents in the vicinity faced immediate consequences, with the water cut-off estimated to last up to eight hours. Following the restoration of service, a boil water advisory was to go into effect as a precaution. The water main break not only inconvenienced locals but also raised concerns over Bortek Utility's role in the incident. Neighbors alleged that the company, which was installing 5G lines at the time, did not properly advise the county of their plans — a step they consider mandatory — and likely caused the mishap.
Discontent grew among the affected residents, who expressed frustration over the lack of communication from Bortek Utility. "Residents told Local 10 News this has upset them because they claim Borek Utility did not advise the county about the planned installation of the line, which they believe is required," according to information shared by viewers. By 7:30 p.m., Miami-Dade Water and Sewer officials reported that repairs had been completed, but the incident left a mark on the community's trust in the utility company's adherence to protocol.
